Prestigious INSAIT Graduate Research Fellowship 2026 in Bulgaria for International Scholars

The INSAIT Graduate Research Fellowship 2026 in Bulgaria offers an exceptional opportunity for international students to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research within the fields of Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Technology. Hosted by the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT) in Sofia, Bulgaria, this fully funded program is designed to foster the next generation of thought leaders and innovators. Established in April 2022 through a collaborative effort with renowned institutions like ETH Zurich in Switzerland and EPFL, INSAIT stands as a pioneering research hub in Eastern Europe, providing world-class facilities and an inspiring environment. This fellowship, which typically spans eight to twelve weeks, is structured to allow participants to actively engage in significant research projects under the direct mentorship of distinguished INSAIT faculty members. It functions much like a specialized internship, offering practical, hands-on experience in a vibrant academic setting. The core mission of INSAIT is to drive global change through excellence in research, scientific discovery, and advanced teaching, cultivating an atmosphere that champions human creativity, curiosity-driven exploration, and intellectual freedom to develop transformative technologies.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the prestigious INSAIT Graduate Research Fellowship, applicants must meet specific requirements designed to ensure a high caliber of participants. The program is open to all international students, welcoming diverse talents from across the globe. Candidates must be currently enrolled in a Master's program or be recent graduates from an accredited university. A strong academic background in STEM fields, including Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering, is essential for this research-intensive fellowship. Beyond academic qualifications, successful fellows are expected to actively contribute to their assigned research projects. Key responsibilities during the fellowship period include:

• Project Plan Development: Collaborating closely with their assigned mentor to define and finalize a comprehensive project plan at the commencement of the program.

• Final Research Report: Producing a detailed final report that encapsulates the research findings, ideally structured as a summary suitable for submission to a relevant academic conference.

• INSAIT Seminar Presentation: Delivering a final presentation of their research outcomes as part of the esteemed INSAIT seminar series, sharing their insights with the broader academic community.

Applicants are required to submit a complete application form, copies of their academic degrees, a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) in PDF format, an unofficial transcript, and a compelling motivation letter. This letter should articulate the applicant's interest in graduate research, highlight general research areas of interest, and detail any prior research experience.

Financial Benefits

The INSAIT Graduate Research Fellowship is a fully funded opportunity, meticulously designed to alleviate financial burdens and allow fellows to concentrate entirely on their research and academic growth. The comprehensive financial package includes:

• Monthly Stipend: A generous stipend of 2000 EUR per month is provided to all selected participants, intended to cover daily living expenses comfortably throughout their stay in Sofia, Bulgaria.

• Accommodation: INSAIT takes full responsibility for managing and covering the costs of student housing arrangements, ensuring a secure and convenient living situation for all fellows.

• Travel and Visa Assistance: Comprehensive support is offered for travel logistics and visa application processes for all chosen applicants, facilitating a smooth transition to Bulgaria.

• Vacation Allowance: Fellows are also granted vacation periods during the fellowship, promoting a healthy work-life balance within the intensive research schedule.

The application process is ongoing, with submissions accepted throughout the year. Candidates typically receive an update on their application status within one month of submission. Shortlisted applicants will proceed to a brief online interview. Upon selection, candidates will receive an official invitation and will have five days to confirm their participation. Following confirmation, fellows will engage with their mentors to finalize project details, scope, and the overall fellowship timeline, ensuring the project can be completed within the maximum 12-week duration.