EPFL AI Center and Swiss AI Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026-2027

Applications are open for the EPFL AI Center and Swiss AI Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowships for the 2026-2027 academic year. This program offers outstanding young researchers the opportunity to collaborate on advancing artificial intelligence techniques across various scientific fields. It is designed for individuals with a PhD who are looking to conduct cutting-edge research in AI.

Application Closing Date: November 9, 2026
Location: Lausanne, Switzerland
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Contribution to salary (approx. 50% per year), CHF 5,000 per fellowship year for research costs
Minimum Qualification: PhD in computer science, physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related AI field
Opportunity Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship

About the EPFL AI Center and Swiss AI Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowships

The EPFL AI Center Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme, supported by the Swiss AI Initiative, aims to bring talented researchers to EPFL. The program focuses on excellence and collaborative research. Fellows will have the chance to work with numerous EPFL faculty members.

This fellowship provides ample freedom for researchers to develop their own research agenda. It also involves contributing to and participating in the activities of the EPFL AI Center. The goal is to foster innovation and advance the capabilities and applications of AI in diverse scientific domains.

About EPFL

EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, is a leading European institution for science and technology. It is known for its vibrant campus, international environment, and strong focus on research and innovation. EPFL is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and addressing global challenges through scientific and technological advancements.

The university is a hub for groundbreaking research, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainable technologies. EPFL attracts top talent from around the world, fostering a collaborative and dynamic academic community.

Available Postdoctoral Opportunities

This fellowship program is open to postdoctoral researchers across various fields relevant to artificial intelligence. While specific research areas are broad, the focus is on advancing AI techniques. Applicants should align their research interests with faculty members at the EPFL AI Center.

Potential research areas include, but are not limited to, machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, robotics, and AI ethics. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will receive significant support for their research endeavors. The fellowship includes a contribution to the postdoctoral researcher’s salary, covering approximately 50% per year, based on EPFL salary scales. The host laboratories will cover the remaining portion of the salary.

Additionally, fellows can receive up to CHF 5,000 per fellowship year for research costs. This funding can be used for open research data, open access publications, travel, and conferences. The host laboratories are committed to providing necessary infrastructure, such as office and laboratory space, equipment, and administrative support.

Programme Duration and Location

The specific duration of the postdoctoral fellowship is not specified. However, the program is for the 2026-2027 academic year. The fellowship will take place at EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland.

EPFL is located in Lausanne, a city on the shores of Lake Geneva. It offers a high quality of life and a stimulating environment for researchers.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the EPFL AI Center and Swiss AI Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowships, applicants must meet several criteria. They must have obtained a PhD diploma in computer science, physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or another field relevant to artificial intelligence. This PhD must have been obtained no more than two years before the submission deadline.

Senior PhD students in their final year of doctoral studies are also eligible to apply, provided they will complete their PhD by the fellowship start date. Applicants must secure the support of two EPFL host professors affiliated with the EPFL AI Center. Priority is given to external candidates, though current EPFL senior PhD students and junior postdocs are also eligible. There are no age or nationality restrictions, and applications from all genders and backgrounds are encouraged.

Competencies Required

While specific competencies are not explicitly listed, the program emphasizes excellence and collaborative research. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic records and professional accomplishments. Key skills would include advanced research capabilities in AI-related fields, strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills.

The ability to work collaboratively with faculty and other researchers is essential. A willingness to develop an independent research agenda and contribute to the AI community is also important.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for highly motivated and outstanding young researchers who have recently completed or are nearing completion of their PhD. It suits individuals passionate about artificial intelligence and eager to contribute to its advancement. The program is particularly suited for those who wish to conduct collaborative research with leading faculty at a world-renowned institution like EPFL.

Applicants should be proactive in identifying potential research supervisors and developing a compelling research proposal. It is for individuals seeking to deepen their expertise and establish a strong foundation for a future career in AI research.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit all required documents through the online submission platform. All documents need to be in English. While a comprehensive list is available in the application toolkit, common requirements for such fellowships include:

• A completed application form.
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A PhD diploma or proof of completion.
• Academic transcripts for PhD and previous degrees.
• A research proposal outlining the intended project.
• Letters of recommendation from academic supervisors.
• Confirmation of support from two EPFL host professors.

Applicants should carefully review the application guidelines provided in the application toolkit for a complete list of required documents.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their applications via the online submission platform. Before applying, it is crucial to explore the application toolkit for detailed guidelines and to contact potential host professors from the provided list to discuss and agree on a potential collaboration.

Ensure all required documents are prepared and submitted accurately. Applicants should carefully read the application guidelines and complete the online form correctly. All documents must be submitted in English.

Click here to apply for the EPFL AI Center and Swiss AI Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowships.

Important Notes

This is a highly competitive program, and excellence is the primary evaluation criterion. Applicants are expected to have excellent academic records and professional achievements. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

It is important to ensure that your PhD will be completed by the time the fellowship begins if you are a senior PhD student. Make sure to secure the support of two EPFL host professors before submitting your application. Applicants may submit only one application.

Closing Date

The closing date for the EPFL AI Center and Swiss AI Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026-2027 is November 9, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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