UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2027–28
The University of California President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program (PPFP) 2027–28 is now accepting applications from outstanding postdoctoral scholars across all academic fields.
- Funding$69,073
- Duration12 months, with possible renewal
- Who can applyGlobal
- Application feeFree
Overview
The fellowship is designed for researchers preparing for academic careers and is conducted under the sponsorship of a faculty mentor at one of the University of California campuses.
The UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program supports researchers in developing independent research programmes and preparing for academic careers. Fellows conduct research at one of the University of California’s campuses under the sponsorship of a tenured faculty mentor.
The programme is open across academic disciplines, including Arts and Humanities, Life Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering and Physical Sciences, and Social Sciences and Professional Fields.
At a glance
About
- Opportunity type
- Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Host
- University of California
- Location
- United States
- Duration
- 12 months, with possible renewal
- Research support
- $5,000
- Applications open
- September 1, 2026
- Mentor & recommendation letters
- December 1, 2026
- Decisions announced
- March 31, 2027
- Fellowship begins
- July 1, 2027
Funding
- Salary
- $69,073
- Application fee
- Free
Eligibility
- Nationality
- Global
- Minimum degree required
- PhD or other terminal degree
- Work experience
- None
- Age limit
- None
Who can apply
Applicants must have a PhD or other terminal degree from an accredited university before the fellowship begins. Successful applicants must also be able to demonstrate that they are legally authorized to work in the United States.
Applicants must also secure sponsorship from a tenured ladder-rank UC faculty member who agrees to serve as their primary mentor. The mentor cannot be the applicant’s PhD dissertation advisor.
Applicants need to prepare:
- 700–1,000 word research proposal
- One-page PhD thesis abstract
- 300–700 word education and background statement
- CV
- Writing sample of up to 35 pages
- Faculty mentor information
- References and recommendation letters
An official graduate transcript is requested if the applicant becomes a finalist/awardee.
What you get
The fellowship provides:
- $69,073 salary
- $5,000 for research expenses and professional development
- Health, vision and dental benefits
- Paid sick leave
- Family and medical leave
- Four weeks of paid time off
Is it fully funded?
It is a funded postdoctoral fellowship, with a salary and benefits rather than a traditional scholarship covering every personal expense. Fellows remain responsible for costs such as housing, food and other personal expenses.
How to apply
- Identify a suitable tenured UC faculty mentor.
- Obtain the mentor’s agreement to sponsor your application.
- Prepare the research proposal, thesis abstract, background statement, CV and writing sample.
- Submit the online PPFP application before November 1, 2026.
- Your mentor and references will receive instructions to submit their letters after your application is completed.
Nationality
The fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities, but successful international applicants must have appropriate U.S. work authorization.
Official Links
Final Note
The UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2027–28 is a strong opportunity for researchers seeking a paid postdoctoral position and a pathway toward an academic career in the United States. Applicants should secure their UC faculty mentor well before the November 1 deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Is the UC President’s Postdoctoral Fellowship fully funded?
It is a funded postdoctoral fellowship providing a $69,073 salary, $5,000 research/professional development support and benefits. It does not cover every personal living expense.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. Applicants from all nationalities can apply, but successful candidates must demonstrate legal authorization to work in the United States.
Is there an application fee?
No application fee is stated in the official application requirements.
Do I need a faculty mentor?
Yes. Applicants must have a tenured ladder-rank UC faculty member, other than their PhD dissertation advisor, agree to serve as their primary mentor.
What is the deadline?
The current application deadline is November 1, 2026.
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