Imagine a fellowship where the boundaries of your research ambitions are set only by your creativity. That’s exactly what the Branco Weiss Fellowship delivers—a rare and extraordinary opportunity for postdoctoral researchers to dive into groundbreaking studies, all while enjoying complete financial support. Launched by the visionary Swiss entrepreneur, Dr. Branco Weiss, this fellowship enables scientists to explore their passions in any field, anywhere in the world, and for up to five years!
Whether you’re eager to tackle societal challenges, disrupt traditional norms in your field, or pioneer innovative solutions, this program is tailor-made for trailblazers. Hosted at the prestigious Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich), the fellowship stands as a beacon of opportunity for researchers looking to make a real difference. With annual funding of CHF 100,000, it not only covers your salary but also research expenses, equipment, travel, and even accommodation. Talk about a dream come true for budding scientists!
So, if you’re ready to chart your own research journey while contributing to societal dialogue on vital cultural, political, or economic issues, the Branco Weiss Fellowship might just be your golden ticket. But don’t wait too long—the deadline is January 15, 2025 !
Branco Weiss Fellowship Program 2025 Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Host | Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich |
| Program | Branco Weiss Fellowship 2025 |
| Location | Zurich |
| Program Duration | 5 years |
| Applicable Candidates | Ph.D. holders (Researchers) |
| Financial Support | CHF 600,000 per year |
| Category | Careers |
| Deadline | 15th January 2025 |
What is the Branco Weiss Fellowship?
The Branco Weiss Fellowship is no ordinary program; it’s a groundbreaking initiative that empowers postdoctoral researchers to lead independent, innovative projects. Designed to bridge the gap between earning a Ph.D. and securing a faculty position, it provides a flexible platform for academic exploration. Open to researchers worldwide, this program allows them to step out of their disciplinary comfort zones and contribute meaningfully to global societal issues.
Fellowship Timeline: From Pioneer to Exploitation Phase
The program is divided into two distinct phases:
- Pioneer Phase (First Two Years): This initial period is all about laying the foundation for your research. You’re encouraged to experiment, innovate, and push boundaries.
- Exploitation Phase (Remaining Three Years): Upon a successful review, fellows proceed to the exploitation phase, where their work is fine-tuned and expanded. During this phase, securing a faculty position won’t disqualify you from continuing with the fellowship.
This structure ensures that researchers have the freedom to grow while maintaining accountability and productivity.
Financial Support You Can Count On
Let’s talk numbers—because they’re impressive. The Branco Weiss Fellowship provides CHF 100,000 annually. This generous funding covers everything you need to succeed:
- Salary
- Research equipment
- Travel expenses
- Consumables
- Accommodation costs
- Personnel support
And the best part? It’s all yours for up to five years, giving you the security and resources to focus entirely on your research.
Eligibility:
Not everyone can secure this prestigious fellowship. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A Ph.D. earned no more than five years before January 15, 2025.
- No prior faculty position.
- A project that deviates from mainstream research in your field.
- An outstanding record of scientific achievements.
- A willingness to engage with social, cultural, or political issues in your research proposal.
Special cases like parental leave or health-related delays in completing your Ph.D. are considered, ensuring fairness in eligibility.
How to Apply for the Fellowship
Applying for the Branco Weiss Fellowship is straightforward, but attention to detail is crucial. Prepare the following documents:
- Motivation Letter: A concise, one-page overview of why you’re an ideal candidate.
- Research Proposal: Highlight your project’s originality and societal impact in four pages or less.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Keep it detailed yet succinct—no more than four pages.
- Publications: Include three of your best, excluding doctoral theses or books.
Make sure all files are in PDF format and don’t exceed 5 MB in size. Submit your application before January 15, 2025!
The Vision Behind the Fellowship
Founded by Dr. Branco Weiss, a Swiss entrepreneur with a passion for fostering innovation, this fellowship continues to honor his legacy. Since its inception, it has been managed by ETH Zurich, a leading institution in global research and education. Weiss’s vision was clear: empower young researchers to explore uncharted territories while addressing the pressing issues of our time.
Why Choose the Branco Weiss Fellowship?
What sets this program apart from others is its unique blend of financial freedom and intellectual autonomy. Unlike many postdoc opportunities, which are bound by institutional frameworks, this fellowship places no restrictions on where you can conduct your research. Whether in bustling labs or quiet countryside retreats, the choice is entirely yours. Plus, the integration of societal dialogue into research ensures your work remains relevant and impactful.
Deadline:
The final deadline for applications via the online form for The Branco Weiss Fellowship program in Switzerland is January 15, 2025, 5 p.m. CET.
