you a woman from a developing country pursuing advanced research in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) fields?
The Schlumberger Foundation’s prestigious Faculty for the Future Fellowships provide up to USD50,000 per year to support your PhD or post-doctoral studies at top universities around the world.
Launched in 2004, the Faculty for the Future program aims to accelerate gender equality in STEM education and careers.
By empowering a global community of talented women scientists, the program seeks to strengthen STEM teaching and research in developing nations for the benefit of those societies and the world. Over 900 women from 93 countries have been awarded these fellowships to date.
Whether you’re considering applying for the first time or seeking to renew an existing grant, read on for essential information and insights to help you pursue this incredible opportunity.
Let’s get started!
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Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for a Faculty for the Future Fellowship, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a female citizen of a developing country or emerging economy. Check the official list of eligible countries.
- Be preparing for a PhD degree or post-doctoral research in a STEM field. Eligible disciplines include:Agricultural sciences
- Astronomy, space and earth sciences
- Biological sciences
- Chemical sciences
- Engineering
- Mathematical sciences
- Neurosciences
- Physics
- Technology
- Be enrolled or applying to a full-time PhD or post-doctoral program at an accredited university or research institute outside your home country.
- Demonstrate leadership skills, a commitment to teaching, and a track record of community engagement.
- Intend to return to your home country upon completion of your studies to contribute to STEM teaching and research.
- Have not received a Faculty for the Future grant in the past. Previous recipients may apply for a renewal grant.
Meeting the basic eligibility criteria is just the first step. Competition for the fellowships is intense, so you’ll need to work hard to make your application stand out.
More on that later!
Fellowship Benefits
Empowering Women in STEM: Apply for Schlumberger Foundation’s Faculty for the Future Fellowships
Faculty for the Future Fellowships are awarded for up to five years and provide substantial funding and support, including:
- A grant of up to USD50,000 per year to cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and research costs. Actual funding amounts are determined based on the cost of study at your host university and other factors.
- Membership in an active global community of women leaders in STEM, with opportunities for networking, mentoring, and collaboration.
- Invitation to the biennial Faculty for the Future Forum to connect with other grant recipients, share research, and participate in leadership workshops.
- Access to exclusive online resources, including a knowledge sharing platform, webinars, and career development tools.
Beyond the generous financial support, the program offers an invaluable opportunity to develop your skills, expand your network, and accelerate your path to a successful STEM career. Many grant recipients go on to become influential leaders in academia, industry, government, and entrepreneurship.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2025-2026 Faculty for the Future Fellowships will be accepted online from September 8 to November 8, 2024. To apply:
- Review the application instructions and make sure you meet all eligibility criteria.
- Prepare the required application materials:Completed online application form
- Research proposal (2-3 pages)
- Personal statement (1 page)
- CV/resume
- Recommendation letters (2)
- Proof of admission to a PhD or post-doctoral program
- Transcripts/diplomas
- Passport photo
- Create an account on the Faculty for the Future application portal.
- Complete the online application and upload all required documents before the November 8 deadline. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
- Await notification of the results. All applicants will be informed of the outcome by mid-April 2025.
The application process is highly competitive, with only a small percentage of candidates selected each year.
Take your time to craft a compelling research proposal and personal statement that highlight your achievements, goals, and potential impact. Reach out to mentors for advice and feedback.
If you are not selected, don’t be discouraged! Many successful applicants apply multiple times before being awarded a fellowship. Use the experience to strengthen your application for next year.
Application Tips
Standing out in a crowded field of exceptional applicants is no easy feat. Here are some tips to help you put your best foot forward:
- Start early. Don’t wait until the last minute to begin your application. Give yourself ample time to gather materials, write and revise your proposal and essays, and secure strong recommendation letters.
- Read the instructions carefully. Make sure you understand all the application requirements and criteria. Follow the guidelines closely and double-check that your submission is complete.
- Craft a compelling research proposal. Your research proposal is the centerpiece of your application. It should be clear, concise, and persuasive, demonstrating the significance and feasibility of your project. Highlight how your research aligns with the program’s goals of advancing STEM education and gender equality.
- Showcase your leadership potential. The Faculty for the Future program is looking for more than just strong researchers. They want to support women who will become leaders and change-makers in their fields and communities. Use your personal statement and CV to highlight your leadership experience, community engagement, and vision for making a difference.
- Choose your recommenders wisely. Your recommendation letters play a crucial role in validating your abilities and potential. Choose recommenders who know you well, can speak to your strengths and achievements, and are influential in their fields. Give them plenty of time to write a thoughtful letter and provide them with a copy of your research proposal and CV.
- Proofread and edit. Before submitting your application, review all your materials carefully for errors, typos, and inconsistencies. Ask a mentor or colleague to provide feedback and suggestions for improvement.
- Demonstrate your commitment to teaching and your home country. The Faculty for the Future program expects recipients to return to their home countries and contribute to STEM education and research. Make sure your application conveys your dedication to teaching and your plans for making an impact in your community.
Remember, the selection committee is looking for candidates who not only have impressive academic achievements but also the potential to become leaders and role models in STEM.
Let your passion, commitment, and unique perspective shine through in your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the deadline for applying for the 2025-2026 Faculty for the Future Fellowships? The online application will be open from September 8 to November 8, 2024. All applications and supporting materials must be submitted by the November 8 deadline.
- How many fellowships are awarded each year? The number of fellowships awarded varies from year to year depending on funding availability and the strength of the applicant pool. In recent years, around 50-70 new fellowships have been awarded annually.
- Can I apply for a Faculty for the Future Fellowship if I am already enrolled in a PhD program? Yes, you can apply if you are currently enrolled in a PhD program outside your home country. You must have at least one year of study remaining at the time of application.
- Are there any age restrictions for applicants? No, there are no age restrictions. However, applicants are typically in the early to middle stages of their academic careers.
- What is the selection process for the fellowships? Applications are reviewed by an independent selection committee of international experts in STEM fields. The committee evaluates candidates based on their academic achievements, research proposal, leadership potential, and commitment to advancing STEM education and gender equality in their home countries.
- When will applicants be notified of the results? All applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application by mid-April 2025.
- What are the reporting requirements for fellowship recipients? Fellows are required to submit annual progress reports and a final report at the end of their funding period. They must also participate in program evaluation surveys and provide updates on their career progress for up to 10 years after receiving the fellowship.
- Can I apply for a Faculty for the Future Fellowship more than once? Yes, unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to apply again in future years. However, previous recipients are not eligible to apply for a new fellowship. They may apply for a renewal grant if they have not exceeded the maximum funding period of five years.
Conclusion
The Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowships provide an unparalleled opportunity for women from developing countries to pursue advanced STEM education and research at leading universities worldwide.
By investing in these talented scholars, the program is helping to build a global community of women leaders who are poised to make significant contributions to their fields and societies.
If you are a woman with a passion for STEM and a commitment to making a difference in your community, we encourage you to apply for a Faculty for the Future Fellowship.
The application process is highly competitive, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Not only will you receive generous financial support for your studies, but you will also gain access to a global network of like-minded women, career development resources, and opportunities for collaboration and leadership.
Don’t miss your chance to join this prestigious program and take your STEM career to the next level. Start preparing your application today and take the first step towards achieving your dreams and making a lasting impact in your field and the world.
For more information and to apply, visit the Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future website.
