International applicants, including Ugandans, must have defended their PhD by 15 January 2027 and normally obtained it within five years. Previous faculty-equivalent appointments are excluded. Candidates need exceptional achievement, a supporting mentor and availability for the annual Zurich symposium. Approved full-time parental or medical leave may extend eligibility.

The fellowship supports unconventional research extending beyond mainstream disciplinary boundaries. Fellows develop independent projects at an appropriate host institution.

Benefits
Up to CHF 600,000 over five years for legitimate research costs, including salary, personnel, equipment, travel and consumables. Continuation follows an intermediate review.

Requirements
One-page motivation letter; five-page project with milestones; four-page CV; host invitation; and five reviewer suggestions. PDF size limits apply. Initial budgets and reference letters are unnecessary.

How to apply
Use the official ETH eResearch application link, upload the documents and enter reviewer suggestions. Submit before 17:00 CET, preferably ahead of the deadline.