Advance Your Research Career with NCCR Automation Fellowship 2025: The NCCR Automation Fellowship 2025 is a golden opportunity for students and early-career researchers who want to dive into the world of automation and control systems. Whether you’re a Master’s student, PhD candidate, or postdoctoral researcher, this prestigious fellowship lets you conduct cutting-edge research in Switzerland—a global hub for science and innovation.
Backed by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) through the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) Automation, this program connects international talent with world-renowned institutions like ETH Zurich, EPFL, and others. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for the NCCR Automation Fellowship 2025, along with tips, FAQs, and practical insights to help you succeed.
Advance Your Research Career with NCCR Automation Fellowship 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | NCCR Automation Fellowship 2025 |
| Duration | Up to 6 months (before July 31, 2026) |
| Eligibility | Master’s, PhD, and Postdoc researchers in automation-related fields |
| Host Institutions | ETH Zurich, EPFL, Empa, University of Zurich, University of Basel, etc. |
| Fields of Study | Control systems, robotics, machine learning, cyber-physical systems, AI, etc. |
| Funding | Covers additional living costs; travel and project expenses by host PI |
| Application Deadline | June 30, 2025 (17:00 CEST) |
| Notification Date | October 2025 |
| Official Website | nccr-automation.ch |
The NCCR Automation Fellowship 2025 offers a rare and valuable chance to elevate your career in automation and control systems. Whether you’re fine-tuning your thesis, initiating a novel project, or expanding your research network, this fellowship can serve as a crucial stepping stone in your journey.
Use this opportunity to immerse yourself in world-class research, engage with leading minds, and make a meaningful contribution to the advancement of technology. Don’t wait—start preparing your application today and take one bold step closer to your research goals.
Why the NCCR Automation Fellowship 2025 Is a Big Deal
Automation and control systems are at the heart of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. They are transforming how we work, live, and connect—from smart factories and self-driving vehicles to intelligent energy grids and personalized medicine. Switzerland is at the forefront of this transformation, and the NCCR Automation Fellowship gives you unparalleled access to the research labs and experts driving this change.
What makes this fellowship stand out?
- Work on real-world, high-impact problems in a highly interdisciplinary environment.
- Collaborate with global leaders in science and technology.
- Access state-of-the-art research infrastructure, labs, and computational resources.
- Gain international experience, enhance your resume, and open doors to future academic and industrial positions.
- Receive a generous financial package to help you live comfortably while conducting research in Switzerland.
This is not just a line on your CV—it’s a leap forward in your career.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to:
- Master’s students who are passionate about automation and show a strong potential for research.
- PhD candidates involved in research across automation, control theory, AI, robotics, or embedded systems.
- Postdoctoral researchers looking to expand their networks, experience, and project outcomes by collaborating internationally.
Applicants must:
- Remain enrolled or employed at their home institution throughout the fellowship period.
- Not have any previous academic or professional affiliation with their chosen host institution in Switzerland.
- Demonstrate alignment between their research goals and the mission of NCCR Automation.
The program encourages diversity and is open to candidates from all countries, backgrounds, and identities.
Fields of Research Covered
The fellowship encompasses a wide variety of research domains, including but not limited to:
- Control Theory & Systems Engineering: Develop mathematical models and techniques for controlling complex systems.
- Robotics and Mechatronics: Design autonomous robots and intelligent machines.
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: Apply AI methods to decision-making and control tasks.
- Cyber-Physical Systems: Explore integration of computing and physical processes.
- Sensor Networks and Embedded Systems: Innovate in communication and processing technologies.
- Optimization and Reinforcement Learning: Enhance performance of adaptive and learning-based systems.
These domains are highly interdisciplinary and have real-world applications in sectors like aerospace, automotive, healthcare, energy, and logistics.
How to Apply
1. Prepare Your Documents
Gather and prepare the following documents in PDF format:
- An up-to-date CV (maximum 2 pages) listing academic achievements, technical skills, and publications.
- A motivation letter (for Master’s applicants) or a detailed research proposal (for PhD/Postdocs) outlining your objectives, methods, timeline, and expected outcomes.
- A letter of recommendation or support from your home university supervisor.
- Copies of academic transcripts and/or degree certificates.
- A declaration of other income, grants, or fellowships you will receive during the same period.
- A selection of up to 3 research topics and 3 host PIs from the official list.
2. Access the Application Portal
Use the online submission platform available on the official NCCR website to submit your documents. Ensure all files are named clearly and formatted correctly.
3. Contact Potential Host PIs
While not mandatory, it’s highly recommended to initiate contact with your preferred host PIs. Introduce yourself, share your research ideas, and express why you are interested in their lab.
4. Submit Before the Deadline
Make sure your application is complete and submitted no later than June 30, 2025 at 17:00 CEST. Applications received after this date will not be reviewed.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you submit your application:
- Expert Review: Your proposal will be evaluated by a selection panel comprising experienced researchers from the NCCR Automation network.
- Selection Criteria: Reviewers will assess the originality, feasibility, and alignment of your project with the fellowship’s objectives.
- Notifications: You will be informed of the results by October 2025 via email.
- Fellowship Period: If selected, your research stay in Switzerland can begin as early as January 2026, and must end no later than July 31, 2026.
Practical Tips for Applicants
Boost your chances with these practical, field-tested tips:
- Customize your research proposal for your target lab or PI—generic proposals are rarely successful.
- Quantify your goals: Include timelines, milestones, and expected deliverables.
- Proofread and format your documents with precision; first impressions count.
- Demonstrate mutual benefit: Show how the fellowship will help you and the host institution.
- Follow up respectfully with your preferred PI after sending an expression of interest.
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FAQs about Advance Your Research Career with NCCR Automation Fellowship 2025
Q1: Do I need to know German or French to apply?
No. Most labs operate in English, which is the main working language for research at participating institutions.
Q2: Can I extend the fellowship beyond 6 months?
No, the fellowship is strictly limited to a maximum of 6 months, with a final deadline of July 31, 2026 for all activities.
Q3: Is this a paid position or a grant?
The NCCR Automation Fellowship provides a grant to cover the additional cost of living in Switzerland. Travel and project-related expenses are covered by your host PI.
Q4: What if I’m unsure about which PI to select?
Review the list of potential hosts on the official site. Check their recent publications, lab focus, and ongoing projects to help guide your decision. Don’t hesitate to reach out with a polite, clear email.
Q5: Is the fellowship open to students outside Europe?
Yes. This opportunity is open to all nationalities, and international candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
