Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Oxford 2026: Fully Funded Opportunity for Early-Career Researchers Applying Artificial Intelligence to STEM Research

The Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Oxford is now accepting applications for its fifth round of funding, offering an exceptional opportunity for talented early-career researchers to combine cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques with groundbreaking scientific research.

The fellowship is designed to support researchers in the mathematical, physical, life, and medical sciences who wish to integrate AI and machine learning into their research projects. Through this prestigious programme, fellows receive mentorship, access to Oxford’s world-class research environment, and the opportunity to develop innovative interdisciplinary projects capable of transforming scientific discovery.

Applications for the 2026 intake open on 3 August 2026, with the submission deadline set for 16 October 2026 at 12:00 noon.

About the Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping scientific research across virtually every discipline. From accelerating drug discovery and improving climate modelling to solving complex mathematical problems and advancing biomedical research, AI has become an essential tool for modern science.

Recognizing this transformative potential, the University of Oxford established the Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship to help outstanding researchers apply AI and machine learning techniques to significant scientific challenges.

Rather than requiring applicants to already be AI experts, the programme seeks researchers with strong scientific backgrounds and promising research ideas who are eager to learn how AI can significantly enhance their work.

Throughout the fellowship, participants receive support to deepen their AI knowledge while working alongside leading scientists and AI specialists at Oxford.

Objectives of the Fellowship

The programme aims to:

• Support innovative interdisciplinary research that combines AI with STEM disciplines.
• Develop the next generation of researchers capable of applying AI to scientific discovery.
• Foster collaboration between AI researchers and scientists across Oxford’s Mathematical, Physical, Life and Medical Sciences (MPLS) divisions.
• Encourage responsible and ethical applications of Artificial Intelligence in research.
• Build long-term research capacity in AI-enabled science.

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship welcomes outstanding researchers who meet the following eligibility requirements.

Applicants must:

• Have completed, or be due to complete before the appointment date, a DPhil or PhD.
• Hold a doctoral degree in one of the following fields:
  • Mathematical Sciences
  • Physical Sciences
  • Life Sciences
  • Medical Sciences
• Demonstrate an innovative research idea that could significantly benefit from AI or machine learning techniques.
• Possess sufficient understanding of AI concepts to explain how AI could improve or expand their research.
• Show awareness of the ethical implications associated with AI applications.
• Secure the support of an Oxford faculty member (Principal Investigator) within an eligible MPLS department who is willing to host them throughout the fellowship.

APPLY HERE

AI Mentor Requirements

Although not compulsory, applicants are strongly encouraged to identify an AI or Machine Learning academic mentor before applying.

The mentor should:

• Be an Oxford faculty member or senior researcher.
• Have expertise in Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning.
• Possess research experience relevant to the applicant’s scientific discipline.
• Provide academic guidance throughout the fellowship.

This mentorship structure ensures fellows receive both scientific and AI-specific support during their research.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful fellows will benefit from numerous professional and academic opportunities, including:

• Access to one of the world’s leading research universities.
• Opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary AI-enabled scientific research.
• Mentorship from internationally recognized Oxford researchers.
• Training to strengthen AI and machine learning expertise.
• Collaboration across multiple scientific disciplines.
• Exposure to advanced research infrastructure and facilities.
• Opportunities to contribute to innovative scientific discoveries.
• Participation in Oxford’s growing AI research ecosystem.
• Professional development as an independent researcher.

Research Focus

Applicants are encouraged to propose research projects demonstrating how Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning can significantly improve scientific investigation.

Potential research may involve:

• Mathematical Sciences
• Physical Sciences
• Biomedical Research
• Medical Sciences
• Life Sciences
• Computational Science
• Data-driven scientific discovery
• AI-assisted experimentation
• Scientific modelling
• Advanced data analysis
• Machine learning applications in STEM

Projects should clearly explain how AI techniques will transform existing research methods or create entirely new research possibilities.

Ethical Considerations

Applicants are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence.

Applications should consider issues such as:

• Responsible AI use
• Transparency
• Research integrity
• Fairness
• Accountability
• Scientific reproducibility
• Ethical deployment of AI technologies

Oxford emphasizes responsible innovation alongside scientific excellence.

Application Process

Applications are submitted through the University of Oxford’s Internal Research Award Management System (IRAMS).

Before beginning an application, candidates should:

• Consult the relevant departmental Research Facilitators.
• Confirm any departmental internal deadlines, as some departments may require earlier submissions.
• Prepare all required documents well in advance.

Applicants already affiliated with Oxford can submit directly through IRAMS after selecting the correct fellowship scheme.

Applicants from outside Oxford will receive assistance from the relevant departmental research support team in uploading their application to the IRAMS platform.

Application Timeline

Important dates include:

• Applications Open: 3 August 2026
• Application Deadline: 16 October 2026 (12:00 noon)
• Interview Period: December 2026 (dates to be confirmed)

Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin preparing early to allow sufficient time for institutional approvals and submission.

Assessment Process

Applications will be reviewed by a multidisciplinary academic panel.

Selection will be based entirely on how well applicants demonstrate that they satisfy the published eligibility and assessment criteria.

The review process includes:

• Academic evaluation
• Assessment of research quality
• Evaluation of the proposed AI integration
• Review of scientific innovation
• Shortlisting
• Interviews for selected candidates

Applicants should remember that panel members may not be specialists in their exact scientific field or AI methodology.

Therefore, proposals should:

• Clearly explain the scientific challenge.
• Describe the proposed AI techniques in accessible language.
• Demonstrate the broader significance of the research.
• Explain expected outcomes and impact.

Panel decisions are final.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Oxford is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion throughout the fellowship application process.

Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Further Information

Applicants seeking additional information may contact the Programme Manager via:

Email: saiis@dtc.ox.ac.uk

Prospective applicants may also:

• Watch the programme’s Open Day recording.
• Contact relevant academic departments within Oxford’s MPLS Division to discuss research opportunities.
• Consult departmental Research Facilitators before beginning an application.

Why You Should Apply

The Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship represents one of Oxford’s flagship initiatives for advancing AI-enabled scientific discovery. It provides an exceptional platform for outstanding postdoctoral researchers to develop interdisciplinary expertise, collaborate with world-renowned academics, and pursue innovative research capable of addressing some of society’s most complex scientific challenges.

For researchers seeking to combine Artificial Intelligence with advanced STEM research while building an international academic career, this fellowship offers an outstanding opportunity to work within one of the world’s most prestigious research environments.

Visit HERE to learn more about the Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Oxford 2026

Application Deadline

Applications open on 3 August 2026.

The deadline for submitting applications is 16 October 2026 at 12:00 noon.

Prospective applicants are advised to begin preparations early and coordinate closely with their prospective Oxford host department before submitting their application.

Conclusion

The Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Oxford offers an unparalleled opportunity for early-career researchers to pioneer the integration of Artificial Intelligence into scientific research. By combining world-class mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and AI-focused training, the fellowship empowers researchers to drive innovation across the mathematical, physical, life, and medical sciences. Eligible candidates with ambitious research ideas are encouraged to prepare strong proposals and submit their applications before the October 2026 deadline.

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