Overview

Vision

Schmidt Science Fellows is an initiative of Schmidt Futures, delivered in partnership with the Rhodes Trust, that believes in a vision of a world where interdisciplinary science flourishes without limit, accelerating discoveries to benefit the world, and driving innovation that improves quality of life for all.

We help scientists solve bigger problems faster by identifying, developing, and amplifying the next generation of interdisciplinary science leaders, by building a community of scientists and supporters of interdisciplinary science, and by utilizing this network to drive sector-wide change.

Why

Anti-microbial resistance. Climate change. Food insecurity. An aging population. Species extinction. The crises that face our planet and our society are broad, deep, and multi-faceted. They recognize none of the neat boundaries that are often and traditionally applied to science.

We are in a new era of science, technology, and innovation. Scientific progress and cutting-edge technologies are rapidly accelerating our understanding of the natural and built worlds. Research is increasingly global and can affect a wide range of pressing societal challenges. In this new era, the best scientists should draw insights from across numerous different disciplines, be able to apply new techniques, and possess a broad world-view informed by the intersections between science and society.

What

The Schmidt Science Fellows program provides the world’s best emerging scientists with new skills and perspectives to develop novel solutions to society’s challenges, become scientific and societal thought leaders, and accelerate ground-breaking discoveries.

We look for the brightest minds in the natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, and computing who are interested in broadening their horizons. Candidates to be Schmidt Science Fellows are expected to already have a strong track record of scientific achievement from their PhD studies, combined with a clear intellectual curiosity and desire to drive future discoveries. They should have the commitment and character to engage with society and global challenges to making a lasting difference in the world. Our Fellows should have a collaborative spirit with the experience and desire to work with diverse teams and across scientific disciplines.

How

Schmidt Science Fellows undertake a 12-24 month postdoctoral placement. This placement commences after a Fellow successfully completes his or her PhD in the natural sciences, computing, engineering or mathematics. Fellows’ placements will represent a significant disciplinary pivot from their PhD topic and are central to the program’s aim to foster greater interdisciplinarity. All placements are with world-leading scientific leaders and internationally-renowned labs. The program works with Fellows after selection to identify and secure a placement that will best achieve their scientific pivot. We work with each placement host to ensure Fellows benefit from a stimulating, challenging, and rewarding environment.