University of California President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026/27

Applications are open for the UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program. This program helps outstanding degree recipients work alongside UC tenured faculty. It prepares scholars for distinguished academic and research careers. The fellowship is open to scholars across all academic disciplines.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: University of California, Office of the President
• Funding: Salary of $69,073 annually, plus $5,000 for research expenses
• Awards: Approximately 30 fellowships given each year
• Duration: Up to two years, based at any UC campus
• Eligibility: Scholars holding a terminal degree in their discipline
• Application Deadline: November 1, 2026

Focus Areas

• Advanced postdoctoral research under faculty mentorship
• Academic career preparation and leadership development
• STEM research through UC National Laboratories
• Professional networking across UC and partner institutions

About the Fellowship

This program connects scholars with established UC faculty mentors directly. Fellows also gain pathways to Chancellor’s Postdoctoral Fellowships at their chosen campus. Ten UC campuses participate, including Berkeley, UCLA, and San Diego. Three national laboratories also offer STEM-focused postdoctoral opportunities. About 70% of past fellows later secure tenure-track faculty positions.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows earn a full annual salary alongside standard employee benefits. These benefits include health insurance and paid vacation or sick leave. An additional $5,000 supports research and program-related travel costs. Fellows also gain structured mentorship and professional development throughout the program.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must hold a terminal degree appropriate to their discipline. STEM applicants may additionally pursue the National Laboratory pathway. Chancellor’s Fellowship applicants may apply to only one UC campus. International scholars may apply, though immigration requirements should be confirmed separately.

Required Materials

Applicants submit a research proposal fitting their academic background and mentor. They also identify a UC faculty mentor before applying. Letters of recommendation are due by December 1, 2026.

How to Apply

Submit your application online before November 1, 2026.

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Conclusion

This fellowship offers strong salary support and direct access to UC faculty mentorship. Its connection to Chancellor’s Fellowships and National Labs broadens opportunities further. Given the competitive 30-award pool, applicants should secure mentors early. Confirm full requirements through UC’s official fellowship application portal.

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