CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars 2027 (Research Support)

CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars 2027 offers early career researchers a two year term in an interdisciplinary network plus unrestricted research support. This award targets independent principal investigators in their first years, not students seeking first admission. Compare it with the Lester B Pearson International Student Scholarships for a different route into Canadian study.

Overview

• Host country, Canada
• Host organisation, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR)
• Level of study, Early career independent research position
• Value, CAD 100,000 unrestricted research support over two years
• Nationality, Open to all countries
• Funded by, CIFAR and Azrieli Foundation

Benefits of the CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars 2027

First, scholars receive CAD 100,000 in flexible research funds paid through their home institution. Also, they join a close knit CIFAR research programme for two years. Plus, the award includes leadership training and an annual meeting. In short, the support covers research costs, teaching relief, trainee support or travel.

• Unrestricted CAD 100,000 over two years
• Mentorship within a global interdisciplinary network
• Leadership development programme
• Opportunities for additional seed funding

Who Should Apply

Researchers already holding a secure full time independent PI role should check this. Students looking for admission funding can review the UBC International Scholars Program instead.

Eligibility Requirements

Overall, applicants must meet these points.

• Hold a PhD or equivalent
• Hold a full time independent research position as principal investigator that includes graduate supervision or teaching, secure from April 2027 to March 2029
• Have started that first independent position between July 2022 and December 2026
• Align research with a recruiting CIFAR programme (examples include Brain Mind and Consciousness or Fungal Kingdom)
• Be fluent in English and available for a virtual interview in March 2027

Already in an Independent Position Required

Postdoctoral fellows are not eligible. The University of Alberta Presidents International Distinction Scholarship takes a different approach for student applicants.

Required Documents

• Online application form via the CIFAR portal
• CV and research statement aligned to a recruiting programme
• Evidence of the independent appointment and its security through March 2029
• Letters or other supporting materials as specified

How to Apply

First, confirm eligibility and choose a matching CIFAR research programme. Next, complete the online form on the official portal. Then, submit by the deadline. Readers can also explore the University of Canterbury Doctoral Scholarship for a student focused New Zealand option.

Application Deadline

Applications close on November 4, 2026 at 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time. The call is open now. Shortlisted candidates receive interview invitations by mid February 2027, with virtual interviews on March 23 to 25, 2027. Results follow in early April 2027 and the public announcement comes in May 2027.

Apply Now

Final Thoughts

Overall, this is a strong research support package for early career independent investigators. However, it is not a route to first student admission and does not cover personal living costs. Check other options too, such as the University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship.