FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the deadline for submitting an application?
The application and the recommendation letter must be submitted by January 15, 2023, 23.59 CET. 

Is funding for overhead fixed at 10%?
The amount of overhead funding is not negotiable. The 10% amount is in addition to the grant of CHF 150’000 (for a total of CHF 165’000). See General Information.

What if I have been on leave, e.g., maternity leave(s), sick leave or other?
Please add a comment (incl. numbers of months outside of academia) in the respective field of the application. We do apply common practice in adjusting for periods of reduced productivity.

I have not yet received my PhD. May I still apply?
By the time the fellowship is awarded (the end of September 2023), you need to have completed your PhD. Please note that if you apply, you will be competing with other candidates who are several years post-PhD.

Can I apply together with other researchers?
No, the fellowship is awarded to an individual researcher. Joint applications are not possible.

Do I need to be employed?
Yes, at the start of the fellowship candidates must be employed at a university or other research institution, but they do not need to have a permanent contract or a full-time position. The fellowship funds must be administered by the relevant university or research institution.

May I move to another institution during the fellowship period?
Yes.We apply the "money follows researcher" process.

Is there a geographic focus when selecting fellows?
The fellowship program is international and open to researchers from any country. The question on the application regarding a geographic focus refers to the focus of your research.

When does the fellowship start?
The three-year Jacobs Foundation Research Fellowship begins on January 1 and ends on December 31 three years later. These dates are not negotiable.

Am I required to submit a budget?
For the initial application, a budget is not required. However, if invited to submit an extended proposal, you are asked to add a budgetary overview as well as a timeline of planned activities.

If I am not selected on my first try, may I reapply?
Yes.

Get some tips on how to write a Jacobs Foundation Research Fellowship Application.