CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program 2027–2029 (CAD $100,000 Research Support)

Applications are now open for the CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program 2027–2029, a prestigious two-year research fellowship that supports exceptional early-career researchers as they develop into internationally recognized leaders in interdisciplinary research. Organized by the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) with support from the Azrieli Foundation, the programme provides unrestricted research funding, leadership training, mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate with some of the world's leading researchers.

The programme is designed for researchers who have recently established independent academic careers and are ready to pursue ambitious research that crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries. By joining one of CIFAR's globally recognized research programmes, scholars work alongside distinguished scientists and experts to tackle complex global challenges in areas such as artificial intelligence, climate science, health, society, and emerging technologies.

Unlike many research grants that restrict how funding may be spent, the CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program provides flexible research support that allows recipients to allocate resources according to their evolving research priorities. This flexibility enables scholars to strengthen research teams, support graduate students, attend international conferences, purchase research equipment, or secure teaching release to focus more effectively on innovative research.

About the Programme

The CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program was established to accelerate the careers of outstanding early-career researchers by connecting them with a global network of internationally renowned scientists and scholars. Rather than funding isolated research projects, the programme integrates scholars into collaborative research communities that encourage bold thinking, interdisciplinary partnerships, and long-term scientific impact.

Throughout the two-year fellowship, scholars actively participate in CIFAR research programmes, attending international meetings, engaging in collaborative projects, exchanging ideas with senior researchers, and developing innovative approaches to scientific and societal challenges. Participants also receive structured leadership development designed to strengthen skills in mentoring, communication, team management, science advocacy, and public engagement.

Programme Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• CAD $100,000 in unrestricted research support over two years.
• Membership in a CIFAR interdisciplinary research programme.
• Mentorship from internationally recognized researchers.
• Leadership development training.
• Opportunities to collaborate across disciplines.
• Access to a global network of leading scientists and scholars.
• Participation in international programme meetings.
• Eligibility to apply for additional CIFAR seed funding for collaborative research.
• Professional development in science communication, mentorship, and research leadership.
• Long-term membership in the CIFAR Global Scholars community after completing the fellowship.

Research Areas

Applicants must align their work with one of the CIFAR research programmes recruiting scholars for the 2027–2029 cohort. Depending on the annual call, research themes may include:

• Artificial Intelligence.
• Machine Learning.
• Brain and Cognitive Sciences.
• Human Health.
• Climate and Environmental Science.
• Quantum Science.
• Society and Public Policy.
• Urban Development.
• Social Innovation.
• Economics.
• Biological Sciences.
• Humanities.
• Other interdisciplinary research areas supported by CIFAR.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a PhD or an equivalent doctoral qualification.
• Hold a full-time position at a university or research institution with responsibilities that include leading independent research as a principal investigator.
• Supervise or teach students or trainees as part of their academic appointment.
• Have started their first independent academic position within the eligibility period specified for the 2027–2029 competition.
• Hold a position that will remain secure throughout the fellowship period.
• Conduct research that complements one of the participating CIFAR research programmes.
• Be available to participate fully in programme meetings and leadership activities during the fellowship.

Required Application Documents

Applicants are generally required to submit:

• Completed online application form.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Research statement.
• Description of current and future research plans.
• Publication record.
• Information about academic appointments.
• References or recommendation letters as specified in the application guidelines.
• Additional supporting documents requested by CIFAR.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Academic excellence.
• Originality and quality of research.
• Alignment with the selected CIFAR research programme.
• Leadership potential.
• Ability to contribute to interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Potential for future scientific impact.
• Strength of academic achievements and publications.

How to Apply

To apply for the CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program 2027–2029:

1. Visit the official CIFAR Global Scholars application portal.
2. Review the eligibility requirements carefully.
3. Select the research programme that best matches your research interests.
4. Complete the online application form.
5. Upload all required supporting documents.
6. Submit your application before the stated deadline.
7. Await notification regarding the interview and selection process.