If you’re a doctoral student with a deep curiosity about the universe and a passion for theoretical and experimental science, the Enrico Fermi Fellowships 2025 may be your next academic leap. Offered by the Center for SpaceTime and the Quantum (CSTQ) and funded by the John Templeton Foundation, this program provides elite PhD candidates with up to €105,000/year in research support to pursue cutting-edge work in physics, cosmology, quantum technologies, and related fields.
This is not just a fellowship—it’s an invitation to collaborate internationally, engage in high-level mentorship, and work across disciplinary boundaries to tackle fundamental questions about reality.
- Host Country: Italy
- Institution/Provider: CSTQ-affiliated Italian universities and research centers
In a world where science often splits into silos, the Enrico Fermi Fellowship supports cross-disciplinary research that blends theoretical insights with experimental exploration. Named after one of the greatest physicists of the 20th century, this program honors Fermi’s legacy by nurturing the next generation of boundary-pushing scientists.
Benefits of the Enrico Fermi Fellowships
Financial Support
- Up to €105,000 per year, including:
- Competitive salary
- Travel allowance for conferences or lab visits
- Research budget for supervisors
Professional Development
- Mentorship by leading scientists
- Access to cross-disciplinary workshops and research events
- Integration into a global network of fellows and collaborators
Flexibility
- Fellowship duration: 1–2 years (with rare 3-year extensions)
- Flexible start date: Anytime between April 2026 and January 2027
This funding structure enables recipients to fully focus on impactful research at the conceptual frontiers of science.
Eligibility Criteria for the Enrico Fermi Fellowship
The fellowship is open to highly motivated doctoral students from around the globe. Here’s what you need to qualify:
Who Can Apply:
- PhD students currently enrolled at any recognized institution
- Researchers working in areas such as:
- Fundamental Physics
- Cosmology and Astronomy
- Quantum Foundations
- Complexity and Emergence
What They’re Looking For:
- Academic excellence with a strong research record
- Clear interest in bridging theory and experiment
- Willingness to work across disciplines and contribute to foundational science
There are no nationality restrictions—this program is fully international.
Required Documents for Enrico Fermi Fellowship Application
To apply successfully, you must prepare a complete and compelling application. Required documents include:
Mandatory:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research Project Proposal
- Emphasize integration of theory and experiment
- Letters of Recommendation (typically two to three)
- Proof of PhD Enrollment from your current institution
📎 All documents should be in PDF format and submitted through the official application portal or email.
Application Timeline for the Enrico Fermi Fellowships
- Application Deadline: October 19, 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Fellowship Start Window: Between April 2026 and January 2027
This is a fixed deadline, so make sure to plan your application and get your references lined up early.
How to Apply for the Enrico Fermi Fellowships 2025
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the Official Fellowship Page:
- Access the application portal at cstq.org/eff
- Prepare Application Materials:
- Write a compelling research proposal that clearly links theoretical insight with experimental design
- Gather references and documentation
- Submit Your Application:
- Ensure all materials are uploaded before the deadline
- For any issues or clarifications, email: eff@cstq.org
- Wait for Results:
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further interviews or clarification
Pro Tips:
- Your proposal should be ambitious but realistic
- Emphasize your ability to collaborate across different domains
- Tailor your application to reflect the cross-training goals of the program
FAQs about the Enrico Fermi Fellowships
Q1: Who can apply?
Doctoral students from any country, currently enrolled in a PhD program, especially those working on theoretical and experimental approaches to fundamental science.
Q2: Is this a postdoctoral fellowship?
No. The program is specifically for PhD students—not for postdocs.
Q3: What kind of projects are preferred?
Projects that combine theory and experiment, especially in fields like cosmology, quantum foundations, or complexity science.
Q4: Is there flexibility in fellowship duration?
Yes, the fellowship typically lasts 1–2 years, with rare extensions to 3 years.
Q5: Can I apply if I focus solely on theory or experiment?
Yes, but priority is given to candidates aiming to bridge both domains in their work.
Final Thoughts on the Enrico Fermi Fellowships 2025
The Enrico Fermi Fellowships 2025 offer far more than generous funding—they offer a transformative research experience. If you’re a PhD student inspired by the big questions in science, this is your chance to work with global mentors, engage in high-impact research, and build lifelong academic connections.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Italy.