The Branco Weiss Fellowship 2025, administered by ETH Zurich, is a prestigious opportunity for exceptional postdoctoral researchers who want to challenge boundaries and pursue innovative, interdisciplinary projects. With a strong emphasis on originality, societal relevance, and groundbreaking research, this fellowship provides an unparalleled platform for academic growth. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key aspects of the fellowship, including eligibility, application requirements, and what sets it apart.
What is the Branco Weiss Fellowship 2025?
Founded in 2002 by Swiss entrepreneur Dr. Branco Weiss, the fellowship supports bold researchers from diverse disciplines. Its primary aim is to enable innovative thinkers to venture into uncharted scientific territories while fostering a dialogue with society. Coordinated by ETH Zurich, this international fellowship is known for its transdisciplinary nature, encouraging projects that bridge gaps between science, culture, politics, and economy.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship is geared toward junior researchers who demonstrate:
- A history of outstanding scientific achievements.
- A desire to challenge mainstream research paradigms.
- A passion for exploring interdisciplinary topics and their societal implications.
If your work deviates significantly from conventional research trajectories and you’re eager to engage with broader societal concerns, this fellowship is designed for you.
Eligibility Criteria for the 2025 Intake
Applicants must meet these criteria to qualify for the Branco Weiss Fellowship:
- PhD Timeline:
- Must officially hold a PhD by January 15, 2025.
- PhD completion should not exceed five years prior to this date.
- Position Status:
- Cannot hold or have previously held a faculty-equivalent role (e.g., assistant professor or lecturer).
- Project Uniqueness:
- Proposed projects must depart from the mainstream and bring originality to the forefront.
- Interdisciplinary Engagement:
- Willingness to engage in dialogues on social, cultural, or political matters beyond the confines of your discipline.
Exceptions are made for applicants who experienced delays due to parental leave or health-related issues, provided official documentation is submitted.
Duration and Phases of the Fellowship
The Branco Weiss Fellowship spans five years, divided into two phases:
- Pioneer Phase (2.5 years):
During this period, fellows focus on initiating their research. A site visit and review occur before the end of the second year to evaluate the project’s originality and productivity. - Exploitation Phase (2.5 years):
Upon satisfactory evaluation, fellows enter the second phase to deepen and expand their research. They are encouraged to seek faculty positions during this time.
Financial Support
Fellows receive funding of up to CHF 600,000 over five years, which can cover:
- Salary.
- Research equipment and consumables.
- Travel expenses.
- Support for additional personnel.
This robust financial package ensures that fellows have the resources necessary to execute their ambitious projects.
Application Process: Key Steps and Timeline
The application process for the Branco Weiss Fellowship 2025 intake is now open. Here’s what you need to know:
Documents to Prepare
- Motivation Letter:
Explain why your research stands out from mainstream studies (max. 1 page). - Research Proposal:
Provide a detailed description of your project, including objectives, methods, timelines, milestones, and societal relevance (max. 5 pages). - Curriculum Vitae (CV):
Highlight your academic journey and accomplishments (max. 4 pages). - Host Institution Letter:
A letter from your prospective host professor explaining why they support your project. - Publications:
Submit your top three peer-reviewed publications.
Submission Guidelines
- Use PDF format for all documents (max. 15 MB total).
- Label files with your last name (e.g., Smith_ResearchProposal).
- Submit the application via ETH Zurich’s eResearch system.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: January 15, 2025, at 5 p.m. CET.
- Interview Notification: May 2025.
- Interviews in Zurich: June 2025.
- Start Date: October 1 to December 31, 2025.
To avoid server overload, applicants are encouraged to submit their materials at least one or two days before the deadline.
Selection Process
Applications are rigorously reviewed by a panel of ETH Zurich faculty and external experts. The evaluation considers:
- Scientific excellence and originality.
- Interdisciplinary potential.
- Personal qualities and motivations.
Shortlisted candidates are invited to Zurich for interviews, where they present their projects to the selection committee.
What Makes This Fellowship Unique?
Unlike many traditional grants, the Branco Weiss Fellowship emphasizes projects that challenge norms and bring fresh perspectives to their respective fields. Fellows benefit from:
- Intellectual Freedom: Freedom to explore unconventional ideas without the constraints of mainstream funding bodies.
- Global Networking: Access to an international community of leading researchers and institutions.
- Support for Faculty Ambitions: Fellows are encouraged to secure faculty positions without jeopardizing their fellowship.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on Originality: Clearly articulate how your research diverges from mainstream studies.
- Highlight Societal Impact: Explain how your project connects science with broader societal issues.
- Be Clear and Concise: Reviewers appreciate well-structured and succinct proposals.
- Engage Your Host Institution: Secure a compelling letter of support that demonstrates their enthusiasm for your project.
Conclusion
The Branco Weiss Fellowship offers an incredible opportunity for postdoctoral researchers eager to push boundaries and make meaningful contributions to both science and society. If you meet the criteria and have a bold research idea, this fellowship could be your gateway to unparalleled academic freedom and growth.
Remember, the deadline is approaching—prepare your application meticulously and submit it early to avoid last-minute hurdles. Good luck!
