The CYD Doctoral Fellowships 2025 offer an exceptional opportunity for ambitious researchers in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data science to pursue a fully funded PhD in Switzerland. Jointly supported by the Cyber-Defence (CYD) Campus and Swiss universities, this highly prestigious program provides financial, academic, and technical backing to scholars determined to advance digital security and defense technologies.
Whether you’re passionate about machine learning, cryptography, cyber-physical systems, or computational science, the CYD Fellowships are a launchpad into cutting-edge research with national impact.
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Host Institutions: Swiss universities (including Università della Svizzera italiana and others)
Fellows benefit from close collaboration with CYD Campus experts, immersive research experiences, and generous funding for travel, conferences, and research tools. The program aims to foster a new generation of cyber-defence leaders working at the intersection of academia and national innovation.
Benefits of the CYD Doctoral Fellowship
Financial Coverage:
- Full salary (including social security) based on host institution standards
- Up to CHF 3,000/year for research expenses
- Up to CHF 5,000/year for attending academic conferences
- Duration: Up to 4 years (with possible 1-year extension)
Academic and Professional Benefits:
- Supervision by a professor at a top Swiss university
- Joint collaboration with CYD Campus labs and researchers
- Access to Swiss and international cyber-defence research communities
- Enhanced publication and networking opportunities
This is more than a scholarship—it’s a comprehensive, career-building fellowship.
Eligibility Criteria for CYD Doctoral Fellowships
Who Can Apply:
- Applicants of any nationality
- Candidates already enrolled or planning to enroll in a PhD program at a Swiss university
Academic Stage:
- Open to researchers at any stage of their PhD
- Preference given to those in early stages or who have not yet started
Institutional Requirement:
- Must have a Swiss professor’s endorsement (they will act as your PhD supervisor)
Language & Age:
- No age limit
- Proficiency in English required for research collaboration and communication
Required Documents for CYD Fellowship Application
Stage 1 (Initial Application):
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter explaining your goals and research interests
- Project Summary (short overview of your intended research)
Stage 2 (Full Proposal for Shortlisted Candidates):
- Comprehensive Research Proposal
- Budget Plan
- Letter of Endorsement from your host professor
- Institutional Support Letter
📁 Format: Submit all materials as PDF files via the official CYD application portal.
Application Timeline for CYD Fellowships 2025
| Stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Stage 1 Application | August 20, 2025 (17:00 CEST) |
| Shortlisting & Interviews | September 2025 |
| Stage 2 Full Proposal | October 1, 2025 (17:00 CEST) |
| Final Results Announcement | End of November 2025 |
⏳ Start preparing early to secure university and supervisor endorsements in time.
How to Apply for CYD Doctoral Fellowships
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Secure a Swiss Supervisor
- Contact professors at Swiss institutions aligned with your research goals
- Prepare Stage 1 Documents
- Submit CV, motivation letter, and short research idea via the online portal
- Interview & Shortlist
- If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an online interview with CYD Campus experts
- Submit Stage 2 Proposal
- Prepare a full proposal with detailed project scope, budget, and endorsement letters
- Await Final Results
- Winners will be announced by the end of November 2025
Application Tips:
- Align your proposal with CYD’s mission in digital security
- Show innovation, feasibility, and interdisciplinary relevance
- Engage with your potential supervisor early for support
FAQs about CYD Doctoral Fellowships
Q1: Do I need to already be admitted to a Swiss PhD program?
Not necessarily, but you must have a Swiss professor’s support who is willing to supervise your PhD if selected.
Q2: Can I apply if I’m in year 2 of my PhD?
Yes, but preference is given to early-stage candidates.
Q3: Are non-Europeans eligible?
Absolutely. The program is open to all international applicants.
Q4: What areas of research are most aligned?
Projects in cybersecurity, machine learning, cryptography, secure systems, AI-driven defense, and computational science are highly encouraged.
Final Thoughts on CYD Fellowships 2025
The CYD Doctoral Fellowship 2025 isn’t just a scholarship—it’s an immersive launchpad for future leaders in cyber-defence, AI, and data-driven research. With full financial backing, prestigious academic affiliations, and exposure to government-led innovation, this program offers everything you need to thrive.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Switzerland.