YBB – Researchers interested in cybersecurity, cyber-defence, artificial intelligence, and digital trust can now apply for the CYD Fellowships 2026 in Switzerland. Jointly offered by the Cyber-Defence (CYD) Campus and EPFL, this funded research program supports talented researchers who aim to develop innovative solutions for emerging digital challenges.
As cybersecurity continues to play a critical role in today’s interconnected world, the fellowship provides an excellent platform for researchers to contribute to cutting-edge projects while collaborating with leading Swiss universities and industry experts. Furthermore, the program welcomes applicants from all nationalities, making it a truly global research opportunity.
The CYD Fellowships offer three funding tracks: the Master Thesis Fellowship, the Doctoral Fellowship, and the Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship. Therefore, candidates at different stages of their academic careers can find a suitable pathway to advance their research ambitions.
About the CYD Fellowships 2026
The CYD Fellowships aim to strengthen research and innovation in cybersecurity, cyber-defence, data science, artificial intelligence, privacy, and digital trust technologies. Through this initiative, participants gain access to Switzerland’s highly regarded research ecosystem while working on projects that address real-world security challenges.
Moreover, fellows collaborate closely with researchers, academic supervisors, and cybersecurity professionals. As a result, participants can expand their expertise, build international networks, and contribute to the advancement of digital security technologies.
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Quick Overview of the CYD Fellowships 2026
Country: Switzerland
Organizations: Cyber-Defence (CYD) Campus and EPFL
Fellowship Categories:
- CYD Master Thesis Fellowship
- CYD Doctoral Fellowship
- CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship
Research Areas:
- Cybersecurity
- Cyber-Defence
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Privacy Technologies
- Digital Trust
Funding Type: Funded
Fellowship Duration
CYD Master Thesis Fellowship
Duration: 6 Months
CYD Doctoral Fellowship
Duration: 4 Years
Possible Extension: Up to 1 Additional Year
CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship
Duration: Up to 2 Years
Benefits of CYD Fellowships 2026
The fellowship program provides generous support tailored to each fellowship category.
Master Thesis Fellowship Benefits
- Monthly living allowance of CHF 2,500 for up to six months
- Research support of up to CHF 1,500
- Opportunity to conduct research within Switzerland’s cyber-defence ecosystem
- Collaboration with leading researchers and cybersecurity experts
- Academic supervision and mentorship
Doctoral Fellowship Benefits
- Salary contribution throughout the fellowship period
- Funding support for up to four years
- Possible extension for one additional year
- Research expense support of up to CHF 3,000 per year
- Conference funding of up to CHF 5,000 annually
- Access to advanced research facilities and collaborations
Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship Benefits
- Salary support for up to two years
- Research funding of up to CHF 3,000 per year
- Conference funding of up to CHF 5,000 annually
- Opportunity to conduct advanced research in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence
- Collaboration with experienced researchers and Swiss academic institutions
- Professional networking and research partnership opportunities
Consequently, fellows can focus on producing high-quality research while receiving substantial financial and academic support.
Eligibility Criteria
CYD Master Thesis Fellowship
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of any country
- Be enrolled in a master’s degree program at a Swiss higher education institution
- Obtain support from a professor or supervisor
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
CYD Doctoral Fellowship
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a doctoral program at a Swiss higher education institution
- Secure endorsement from a professor at the institution
- Demonstrate excellent academic achievements and research potential
- Preferably be at an early stage of their PhD journey
CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship
Applicants must:
- Hold postdoctoral researcher status
- Obtain endorsement from a professor at a Swiss higher education institution
- Conduct research in a laboratory different from their doctoral research laboratory
- Demonstrate a strong academic and professional track record
- Show the potential to contribute significantly to cybersecurity and cyber-defence research
Notably, there are no nationality or age restrictions for any fellowship category.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supervisor endorsement or support letter where applicable
- Additional supporting materials requested by the fellowship program
Furthermore, all application materials must be submitted in English.
How to Apply for CYD Fellowships 2026
Interested applicants can follow these steps:
- Review the official fellowship guidelines carefully.
- Select the fellowship category that matches your academic level.
- Prepare all required application materials.
- Contact a professor or supervisor if endorsement is required.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all supporting documents.
- Verify that all materials are submitted in English.
- Review the application thoroughly.
- Submit the completed application before the deadline.
Because the selection process is highly competitive, applicants should begin preparing their applications as early as possible.
Apply Here:
https://www.epfl.ch/research/funding/epfl-programmes/cyd/
Important Dates
CYD Master Thesis Fellowship
Applications remain open throughout the year.
CYD Doctoral Fellowship
Application Deadline: 19 August 2026
Full Proposal Deadline: 1 October 2026
Results Announcement: November 2026
CYD Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship
Application Deadline: 19 August 2026
Full Proposal Deadline: 1 October 2026
Results Announcement: November 2026
Applicant Workshop
Online Workshop: 7 July 2026
Why You Should Apply
Switzerland continues to rank among the world’s leading countries for innovation and scientific research. Therefore, the CYD Fellowships provide an exceptional opportunity to conduct impactful research while working alongside renowned experts in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
Additionally, participants gain access to valuable funding, professional mentorship, international collaborations, and advanced research facilities. These benefits can significantly strengthen both academic careers and industry prospects.
Whether you are completing a master’s thesis, pursuing a PhD, or advancing your postdoctoral research, the CYD Fellowships can help transform your ideas into meaningful contributions to global cyber security.
Conclusion
The CYD Fellowships 2026 in Switzerland offer outstanding funded opportunities for researchers passionate about cybersecurity, cyber-defence, artificial intelligence, data science, and digital trust. Through generous financial support, research funding, and collaboration with leading Swiss institutions, the program enables participants to tackle emerging digital challenges while advancing their academic and professional careers. If you are ready to contribute to the future of cybersecurity research, this fellowship is an opportunity worth pursuing.
