Applications are now open for the CYD Fellowships 2026 in Switzerland. The CYD Fellowships are prestigious research opportunities jointly offered by the Cyber-Defence (CYD) Campus and EPFL. The program supports talented researchers who want to contribute to cybersecurity, cyber-defence, data science, and digital trust technologies.The program is open to applicants of all nationalities. However, candidates must meet the specific eligibility requirements for their selected fellowship category.
The fellowship program offers three funding opportunities: the CYD Master Thesis Fellowship, CYD Doctoral Fellowship, and CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship. Through these fellowships, participants can conduct research at the CYD Campus while collaborating with leading Swiss universities and experts.
Cybersecurity has become one of the most important fields in today’s digital world. Therefore, the CYD Fellowships aim to support innovative research projects that can help address emerging cyber threats and strengthen cyber-defence capabilities. The fellowships provide financial support, research funding, and opportunities to work within Switzerland’s advanced research environment.
Quick Overview of CYD Fellowships 2026 in Switzerland:
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Host Organizations: EPFL and CYD Campus
- Fellowship Types: Master Thesis, Doctoral, and Distinguished Postdoctoral
- Fields: Cybersecurity, Cyber-Defence, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Privacy, and Digital Trust
- Funding Type: Funded
Duration of CYD Fellowships:
CYD Master Thesis Fellowship
- Duration: 6 Months
CYD Doctoral Fellowship
- Duration: 4 Years
- Possible extension of 1 additional year
CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Duration: Up to 2 Years
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Benefits of CYD Fellowships in Switzerland 2026:
CYD Master Thesis Fellowship Benefits
- Fellows will receive a monthly living allowance of CHF 2,500 for up to six months.
- Selected participants can obtain up to CHF 1,500 to support research-related expenses.
- The fellowship provides an opportunity to work on a master’s thesis within Switzerland’s cyber-defence research environment.
- Participants will collaborate with researchers and specialists working on real-world cybersecurity challenges.
- Fellows will gain valuable research experience under the guidance of academic supervisors and CYD experts.
CYD Doctoral Fellowship Benefits
- Doctoral fellows will receive a salary contribution throughout the fellowship period.
- The funding can support research activities for up to four years, with a possible one-year extension.
- Researchers may receive up to CHF 3,000 per year for eligible research expenses.
- Additional conference funding of up to CHF 5,000 per year is available.
- Fellows will have the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research in cyber-defence and data science.
- The program encourages collaboration with leading Swiss universities and research institutions.
CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship Benefits
- Successful applicants will receive salary support for up to two years.
- The fellowship offers up to CHF 3,000 per year to cover approved research costs.
- Researchers can access conference funding of up to CHF 5,000 annually.
- Participants will conduct advanced research in cybersecurity, privacy, artificial intelligence, and digital trust technologies.
- Fellows will work alongside experienced researchers from the CYD Campus and Swiss academic institutions.
- The program provides an excellent platform to expand professional networks and research collaborations.
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Eligibility Criteria for CYD Fellowships 2026:
CYD Master Thesis Fellowship Eligibility
- Applicants from all countries are welcome to apply.
- There is no age restriction for this fellowship.
- Candidates must be enrolled in a master’s degree program at a Swiss higher education institution.
- A professor or supervisor from the institution must agree to support the application.
- Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance through their previous studies.
CYD Doctoral Fellowship Eligibility
- Researchers of any nationality can submit an application.
- The fellowship does not impose an age limit.
- Candidates must be enrolled in a doctoral program at a Swiss higher education institution.
- Support from a professor at the host institution is required.
- Applicants should have an excellent academic background and research potential.
- Preference may be given to candidates who are at the beginning of their PhD journey.
CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship Eligibility
- The fellowship is open to postdoctoral researchers from around the world.
- Applicants can apply regardless of their age.
- Candidates must secure endorsement from a professor at a Swiss higher education institution.
- The proposed fellowship research must be conducted in a laboratory different from the applicant’s doctoral research laboratory.
- Researchers should demonstrate a strong record of academic and professional achievements.
- Applicants must show the potential to contribute to the fields of cybersecurity and cyber-defence research.
How to Apply for CYD Fellowships 2026:
- Start by reviewing the official fellowship guidelines to understand the requirements and application process.
- Choose the fellowship category that best matches your current academic or research level.
- Take time to prepare all required documents before beginning the online application.
- Contact a professor or supervisor at a Swiss higher education institution if endorsement is required for your fellowship category.
- Complete the application form carefully and provide accurate information.
- Upload all supporting documents through the official submission platform.
- Make sure every document is submitted in English as required by the program.
- Double-check your application before submission to avoid missing information.
- Submit your application before the relevant deadline and keep a copy of your confirmation for future reference.
Important Dates of CYD Fellowships 2026:
CYD Master Thesis Fellowship
- Applications are open throughout the year.
CYD Doctoral Fellowship
- Application Deadline: 19 August 2026
- Full Proposal Deadline: 1 October 2026
- Results Expected: November 2026
CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Application Deadline: 19 August 2026
- Full Proposal Deadline: 1 October 2026
- Results Expected: November 2026
Applicant Workshop
- Online Workshop: 7 July 2026
