Explore the globally competitive Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program offering CHF 150,000 to early and mid-career researchers advancing child and youth development. Learn about eligibility, benefits, and how to apply by February 2, 2026.
Introduction
The Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program stands as one of the world’s most prestigious opportunities for early and mid-career researchers dedicated to improving learning and development outcomes for children and youth. Designed to support innovative thinkers working across disciplines, the fellowship provides generous funding, mentorship, and global networking to advance groundbreaking research in education, psychology, neuroscience, behavioral science, and other related fields.
With the 2026 application window now open, scholars around the world are invited to submit their proposals by February 2, 2026.
A Fellowship Designed for Global Impact
The Jacobs CIFAR Fellowship is more than a research grant—it is a comprehensive support system that empowers scholars to explore bold ideas with real-world impact. The program is intentionally interdisciplinary, encouraging researchers to tackle complex questions about learner variability, inequality, digital technologies, and evidence-informed education practices.
Each year, up to 12 fellows are selected, receiving:
- CHF 150,000 over three years
- Up to 50% salary coverage
- Support for research expenses, travel, equipment, and staff
- Additional funding opportunities for evidence-to-action or capacity-building projects
- Integration into a global community of researchers and education innovators
Key Research Questions Driving the Program
The fellowship aligns with the Jacobs Foundation’s Strategy 2030, encouraging proposals that address:
- How do individual and contextual variations influence learning?
- How can education systems embrace learner variability at scale?
- How can inequalities in learning outcomes be reduced?
- How can digital tools be leveraged equitably and effectively?
- How can evidence-based interventions be expanded to reach more learners?
Researchers are encouraged to propose visionary, cross-disciplinary, and scalable ideas.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have completed a PhD within the past 10 years
- Be employed at a university or research institution
- Conduct research highly relevant to child or youth learning
- Demonstrate strong potential for leadership and innovation
- Commit to active participation in the fellowship network
International applicants are welcome, making the program truly global.
What Successful Applicants Gain
1. Independent Research Funding
The fellowship empowers scholars to pursue transformative research without restrictive parameters, supporting assistant salaries, data collection, and travel.
2. Mentorship and Collaboration
Fellows join a cross-disciplinary network spanning education, neuroscience, sociology, economics, computer science, and more.
3. Platforms for Visibility
Researchers gain opportunities to share findings across media channels, conferences, and policy-engagement forums.
4. Long-Term Professional Growth
Alumni remain connected through ongoing networks, events, and collaborative opportunities.
Application Process: How It Works
The fellowship selection process includes three rigorous stages:
1. Initial Application
Applicants submit a narrative outlining:
- Broad research vision for the next 3–5 years
- Motivation for joining the Fellowship
- Alignment with Strategy 2030
- Potential for interdisciplinary contributions
2. Extended Proposal
Selected candidates must provide:
- A detailed research plan
- Project milestones and impact pathways
- A budget overview
3. Interview Stage
Finalists engage in an interview exploring:
- Research depth and originality
- Capacity for collaboration
- Commitment to engagement within the Jacob Foundation network
Applicants receive feedback after reaching the interview stage.
A Fellowship with Purpose
The Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship is designed not only to fund research but to foster a global environment where evidence informs action. Fellows are encouraged to publish widely, engage with policymakers, and support system-level improvements that benefit children and youth worldwide.
The fellowship honors the legacy of Dr. Thomas L. Charlton, whose pioneering work in oral history and community research continues to inspire innovative academic leadership.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: February 2, 2026, 12 noon EST
- Fellowship Start: January 1, 2027
- Fellowship End: December 31, 2029
How to Apply
Researchers interested in joining this transformative program can apply through the Jacobs Foundation portal.
Conclusion
The Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program represents a vital investment in the future of education, learning, and child development research. For scholars passionate about building equitable and effective learning systems, this fellowship offers the resources, connections, and visibility needed to spark meaningful global change.
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