USA University of Michigan Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)
The Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Michigan (U-M)—funded by Schmidt Sciences—offers exceptional early-career researchers an opportunity to advance scientific discovery through Artificial Intelligence (AI). As part of a global network of leading institutions, this program aims to integrate AI methodologies across diverse scientific and engineering domains to drive transformative research.
The University of Michigan (U-M), founded in 1817 and located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is one of the top-ranked public research universities in the United States and globally renowned for its academic excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary research. With 19 schools and colleges, U-M offers over 275 degree programs across diverse fields, including engineering, medicine, business, law, and the arts. The university is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) and is consistently ranked among the world’s best institutions for research output, faculty expertise, and graduate employability. Known for its vibrant campus life, cutting-edge facilities, and strong commitment to diversity, sustainability, and global engagement, the University of Michigan fosters an environment where students and scholars collaborate to solve real-world challenges and lead in their fields.
Degree Level
- Postdoctoral Fellowship
Available Subjects
The fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers (Fellows) who apply AI techniques—broadly defined to include machine learning, robotics, Bayesian inference, and simulation—to address significant research questions in:
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences (excluding clinical and healthcare applications)
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Engineering
- Physical Sciences and Mathematics
- Each Fellow works under the joint supervision of two U-M faculty mentors:
- AI Mentor: Expert in AI methodologies
- Science Mentor: Specialist in the domain discipline
Fellows also engage in structured learning, collaboration, and responsible AI practices through the Michigan Institute for Data and AI in Society (MIDAS).
Benefits
Annual Stipend: USD 81,000 plus benefits
Faculty Mentor Requirements
Each candidate must identify:
- AI Mentor: Provides guidance on AI methodology.
- Science Mentor: Provides expertise in the research domain.
Mentors must agree to:
- Supervise and guide the Fellow’s research and career development.
- Cover all research-related costs, including computing, data access, publications, travel, and visa fees.
- Participate in program activities, such as workshops and review sessions.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD awarded after September 1, 2021, and before the start date (August/September 2026).
- Have deep expertise in AI or a scientific domain, with strong interest in the other.
- Have no prior tenure-track faculty appointment.
- Be able to secure two U-M faculty mentors (AI and Science).
- Be committed to responsible AI research and collaborative learning.
Note: International applicants are fully eligible to apply. Visa support will be provided upon selection.
Application Procedure
Application Components
Applicants must submit:
- CV
- AI Keywords (up to 3)
- Research Tagline (max 8 words)
- Research Blurb (300 words, general audience)
- Research Statement (max 2 pages)
- Individualized Development Plan (max 2 pages)
- Responsible AI Statement (½ page)
- Three Best Papers or Research Works
- Letters of Support from both mentors
- 2–3 References (letters of recommendation)
- All documents must be in PDF format and uploaded via the online portal.
Timeline
- Application Opens: September 2025
- Priority Deadline: November 30, 2025
- Offer Notifications: February 2026
- Start Date: August–September 2026
Selection Criteria
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Fit with program goals and interdisciplinary vision
- Quality and originality of research proposal
- Evidence of excellence in AI and/or science domain
- Commitment to skill development and responsible AI
- Strength and compatibility of selected mentors
Diversity and Inclusion
The University of Michigan and Schmidt Sciences strongly emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The fellowship encourages applications from underrepresented groups and supports equitable access to mentorship and training.
