Published: 30 Sep 2026 21 views
CIFAR (Canadian Institute for Advanced Research) is a Canadian non-profit research organization founded in 1982 and based in Toronto. It supports researchers from around the world in areas such as AI, science, health, climate, and social sciences.
CIFAR is a Canadian-based global research organization that convenes extraordinary minds to address the most important questions facing science and humanity. ... In 2017, the Government of Canada appointed CIFAR to develop and lead the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, the world's first national AI strategy.
| Application Deadline | 04 Nov 2026 |
| Country to study | Canada |
| Type | PhD |
| Sponsor | Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) |
| Gender | Men and Women |
CAD $100,000 in unrestricted research support over 2 years.
Mentorship from experienced researchers.
Membership in a global research network.
Opportunities to attend CIFAR meetings and research activities.
Opportunities to collaborate with researchers from different countries.
Professional development and leadership opportunities.
Have completed a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree.
Be within 5 years of completing their PhD at the application deadline.
Hold a full-time academic or research position at an eligible institution.
Be working in a field related to one of CIFAR’s research programs.
Be able to participate in CIFAR meetings and activities.
Be from any country.
1. Basic Eligibility:
CIFAR screens all applications to ensure they meet the basic eligibility requirements.
2. Program-Level Review:
Each participating program forms a sub-committee of CIFAR Fellows and Advisors to evaluate applications using three criteria:
Inclusive research excellence: Intellectual/academic assessment based on all available application materials. Multiple dimensions of research excellence and impact are considered, including contributions at various stages of the research process and a range of outputs, including but not limited to: journal publications, policy papers, datasets, open science materials, conference organization, capacity-building, and outreach.
Potential contribution to the program: An assessment of the potential to contribute new and diverse perspectives and approaches that build on or complement the existing program membership.
Leadership potential: An assessment of current, past, and potential leadership both within and outside of academia.
Each committee recommends up to five shortlisted candidates to proceed to the final interview stage.
3. Interviews:
Shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in a virtual interview on March 23–25, 2027. Interviews are conducted by an independent and diverse Selection Committee that includes academic researchers and professionals with expertise in areas such as science policy, communication, and leadership development.
The committee evaluates candidates on:
Capacity and motivation to engage across disciplines
Communication skills
Potential for leadership and impact
Check also:
Commonwealth Master's Scholarship to Study in UK 2027/2028
Mandela Washington Fellowship for Africans 2027 (Fully Funded to USA)
For more information, visit CIFAR scholarship webpage.
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