University of Michigan AI Fellowship 2026 Your Gateway to Advanced AI Research

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming science, engineering, and society. The University of Michigan (U-M) is at the forefront with its prestigious Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship through MIDAS (Michigan Institute for Data & AI in Society). Their 2026 cohort applications are now open — a superb opportunity for early-career researchers looking to drive innovation at the intersection of AI and domain science.

Schmidt AI in Science Fellowship?

This is a 2-year postdoctoral fellowship, funded by Schmidt Sciences, designed to enable outstanding early-career researchers to apply cutting-edge AI methodologies (like machine learning, robotics, Bayesian inference, or simulation) to major scientific challenges.

The unique mission: accelerate scientific breakthroughs by combining AI expertise with domain knowledge in areas like engineering, physical sciences, mathematics, and more.

Eligible

To apply for the 2026 fellowship, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a PhD by the time the fellowship starts (around August/September 2026).
• The PhD must have been awarded after September 1, 2021.
• Applicants should demonstrate strength in AI methodologies or in a science domain, and have a passion for bridging these two.
• Applicants must secure two U-M faculty mentors:
  • One AI mentor (expert in the AI method you’ll use)
  • One Science mentor (expert in your application domain)
• If you're already a U-M postdoc or PhD student, your proposed project must be significantly different from your current research, and your mentors should also be new.

Fellowship Is Outstanding

• Interdisciplinary Training: You don’t just apply AI — you integrate it with domain science, making your research more impactful.
• Strong Mentorship Support: With two faculty mentors, you get guidance in both AI techniques and your scientific domain.
• High Visibility: As part of a global Schmidt AI fellowship network, your work could contribute to large, cross-institutional impact.
• Professional Development: The fellowship supports you in building a research portfolio, developing interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthening your career trajectory.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Reach out early to potential faculty mentors — building a strong mentor relationship is key.
• Work on a clear, compelling research statement that explains why your AI idea matters and how it advances science.
• Choose AI keywords thoughtfully — they should reflect both your research methodology and major techniques.
• Write your research blurb for a general audience, but make sure it still has technical depth to show your expertise.
• Ask your mentors for feedback on your application before submission.

Final Thoughts

The University of Michigan Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship (2026) is a rare opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge AI research while working in close partnership with leading faculty at a top-tier institution. If you are passionate about applying AI to science and engineering, this could be your path to making transformative contributions.
Apply by November 30, 2025, start building your mentor relationships now, and prepare a strong, polished application. This fellowship could launch your career into new realms of interdisciplinary research and innovation.

Apply now