Applications are now open for the prestigious EPFL CYD Fellowships 2027 in Switzerland. This fully funded fellowship programme is jointly organized by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and the Cyber-Defence Campus to support outstanding students and researchers working in cybersecurity, cyber defence, artificial intelligence for security, privacy, and related fields.
The fellowship provides an opportunity for talented researchers to conduct cutting-edge research at leading Swiss higher education institutions and the Cyber-Defence Campus. Through generous funding, research support, and access to world-class facilities, fellows can contribute to innovative solutions in cyber defence and security.
What is EPFL CYD Fellowships 2027?
The CYD Fellowship Programme is a highly competitive research initiative designed to strengthen cyber defence research, foster innovation, and support talented researchers at different academic levels.
The programme offers funding for Master's students, Doctoral researchers, and Postdoctoral fellows, enabling them to conduct advanced research projects under the supervision of leading professors at Swiss institutions.
EPFL CYD Fellowships 2027 Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Switzerland |
| Host Institutions | Swiss Higher Education Institutions |
| Organized By | EPFL & CYD |
| Programme Type | Fellowship |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Duration | 6 Months – 4 Years |
| Eligible Applicants | Master's, PhD & Postdoctoral Researchers |
| Application Deadline | 19 August 2026 |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Applications Open | Open Now |
| Application Deadline | 19 August 2026 |
| Master's Fellowship Deadline | Rolling Basis |
Research Areas
The fellowship supports research in the following fields:
- Cyber Security
- Cyber Defence
- Privacy
- Artificial Intelligence for Security
- Digital Trust
- Related Security Fields
Fellowship Types
| Fellowship Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Master's Thesis Fellowship | 6 Months |
| Doctoral PhD Fellowship | Up to 4 Years |
| Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship | Up to 2 Years |
Master's Thesis Fellowship
The Master's Fellowship supports students conducting thesis research in cybersecurity and related disciplines at the CYD Campus under the supervision of a professor from a Swiss higher education institution.
Funding Coverage
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | CHF 2,500 |
| Research Allowance | CHF 1,500 |
Eligibility
- Open to all nationalities
- No age restrictions
- Enrolled in a Master's degree programme at a Swiss higher education institution
Doctoral PhD Fellowship
The Doctoral Fellowship enables PhD candidates to conduct their doctoral research at the CYD Campus while working under the supervision of a host professor at a Swiss institution.
Funding Coverage
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salary | Competitive Salary |
| Research Allowance | CHF 3,000 Per Year |
| Conference Support | Up to CHF 5,000 |
Eligibility
- Open to all nationalities
- No age restrictions
- Enrolled in a PhD programme at a Swiss higher education institution
- Supervisor endorsement required
Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship
The Postdoctoral Fellowship supports researchers in conducting advanced research projects at the CYD Campus under the supervision of experienced professors.
Funding Coverage
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salary | Competitive Salary |
| Research Allowance | Up to CHF 3,000 Per Year |
| Conference Support | Up to CHF 5,000 Per Year |
Eligibility
- Open to all nationalities
- No age restrictions
- Must already hold a PhD degree
- Strong publication record required
- Professor endorsement required
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Fully funded research support
- Monthly stipend or competitive salary
- Research allowances
- Conference funding support
- Access to world-class research facilities
- Collaboration with leading researchers
- International networking opportunities
- Exposure to cutting-edge cybersecurity projects
- Global recognition and career development
Required Documents
Applicants may require the following documents:
- Updated CV/Resume
- Academic Transcripts
- Research Proposal
- Motivation Letter
- Recommendation Letters
- Supervisor Endorsement
- Academic Certificates
- Publication Records (For Postdoctoral Applicants)
Selection Process
The selection process generally includes:
- Online Application Submission
- Eligibility Screening
- Academic Evaluation
- Research Proposal Assessment
- Expert Review
- Final Selection
How to Apply for EPFL CYD Fellowships 2027
Step 1
Choose the fellowship category that matches your academic level.
Step 2
Secure a host professor at a Swiss higher education institution.
Step 3
Prepare all required documents.
Step 4
Complete the CYD Fellowship application form through the official portal.
Step 5
Submit your application before the deadline.
Important Points
- Fellowship is fully funded.
- Open to applicants from all countries.
- No age restrictions apply.
- Three fellowship categories are available.
- Research must be conducted at Swiss institutions.
- Supervisor endorsement is mandatory for PhD and Postdoctoral applicants.
- Application deadline is 19 August 2026.
Common Questions
Q. Is the EPFL CYD Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the fellowship provides comprehensive funding, including stipends, salaries, research support, and conference allowances.
Q. Who can apply?
Master's students, PhD candidates, and Postdoctoral researchers can apply depending on the fellowship category.
Q. Is there any nationality restriction?
No, applicants from all nationalities are eligible.
Q. What research fields are supported?
Cyber Security, Cyber Defence, Privacy, Artificial Intelligence for Security, Digital Trust, and related fields.
Q. Is a supervisor required?
Yes, supervisor endorsement is required for Doctoral and Postdoctoral fellowships.
Q. What is the application deadline?
19 August 2026 for Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships.
Q. Are there age restrictions?
No, there are no age restrictions.
Final Words
The EPFL CYD Fellowships 2027 represent an outstanding opportunity for students and researchers seeking advanced research experience in cybersecurity and cyber defence. With generous financial support, access to leading Swiss research institutions, and collaboration opportunities with top experts, this fellowship can significantly enhance academic and professional careers.
Interested candidates should begin preparing their applications early and secure the required academic supervision before the application deadline.