Deadline: February 2, 2026
Applications are open for the Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program 2027-2029. The Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Program is a globally competitive fellowship program for early and mid-career researchers whose work is dedicated to improving the learning and development of children and youth worldwide. The relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, education sciences, psychology, economics, sociology, behavioral science, computer science, pedagogy, linguistics, neurosciences, and science of learning.
Particularly encouraged to apply are scholars who seek to combine multiple levels of analysis and engage in interdisciplinary work. A special focus lies on work to understand and embrace variability in learning; promote the generation, transfer, and practical application of evidence on human learning and development or increase the capacity to scale up effective education policies and practices.
CIFAR and the Jacobs Foundation are especially interested in the following questions, which are aligned with their research agenda:
- How do variations in individuals and contextual factors influence learning and development and learning outcomes?
- How can we design for learner variability at scale to enable all children to reach their potential as learners and in life?
- How can we produce interventions that reduce growing inequalities in children’s learning and overcome disparities in the impacts of digital technologies?
- How can we address the role of data to help learners and teachers make informed decisions about their learning and teaching?
Funding
- The funding amount is CHF 150,000
Eligibility
The ideal candidate
- has obtained his/her PhD or equivalent degree within the past 10 years;
- is employed at an institution of higher education or research institute;
- is conducting high-quality research in an area highly aligned with early education and learning variability;
- is committed to engaging with the Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship Network.
Selection Criteria
The following selection criteria are weighted equally:
- Past research accomplishments and publication record
- Creativity and potential for serving as a leader in the scientific community
- Scientific quality of methods and data
- International relevance of the fellow’s planned work
- Potential for promoting human development and learning
- Alignment of planned projects with the goals of the Jacobs Foundation’s Strategy 2030
- Willingness engage with the Jacobs Foundation and CIFAR network along with fellowship alumni
Application
The application must be submitted by February 2, 2026, noon EST.
For more information, visit Jacobs CIFAR Research Fellowship.
