CYD Fellowships 2025 in Switzerland (Fully Funded) – Apply Now

Are you an ambitious researcher looking to make a significant impact in the field of cybersecurity, digital resilience, or data science? The CYD Fellowships 2025 in Switzerland offer fully funded research opportunities for international students passionate about strengthening cyber-defence systems. Backed by armasuisse Science and Technology and implemented by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) and partner institutions like ETH Zurich, this fellowship program aims to foster cutting-edge research that addresses growing global threats to digital infrastructure.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the benefits, eligibility, application procedure, and key deadlines of the CYD Fellowships 2025. Whether you’re a Master’s student, a prospective PhD candidate, or a postdoctoral researcher, now is the time to apply and contribute to Europe’s cyber-defence strategy.

Quick Summary Table

What Are CYD Fellowships?

The CYD Fellowships (Cyber-Defence Fellowships) are a prestigious fully funded research initiative designed to promote academic excellence in cybersecurity and digital innovation. Co-developed by EPFL and the Cyber-Defence (CYD) Campus in Switzerland, this program seeks to support highly talented researchers who are working on advanced solutions in:

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning for security

• Network vulnerability and intrusion detection

• Blockchain technologies for defense

• Quantum encryption

• Critical infrastructure protection

• Digital forensics

• Secure communication protocols

Fellows benefit from a high-tech, collaborative environment and access to state-of-the-art facilities at institutions like EPFL, ETH Zurich, and the CYD Campus in Thun.

Degree Levels Offered

The CYD Fellowships 2025 are open to researchers at different stages of their academic careers:

• Master’s Thesis Students

• Doctoral (PhD) Candidates

• Postdoctoral Researchers

All positions are fully funded and hosted by a Swiss higher education institution.

Eligible Fields of Study

The fellowship is specifically tailored for advanced research in:

• Cyber Defence

• Cybersecurity

• Digital Resilience

• Data Science

• Quantum Security Systems

Host Institutions in Switzerland

Fellows will conduct research at one of the following premier institutions:

• École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)

• ETH Zurich

• Cyber-Defence Campus, Thun

These institutions offer access to cutting-edge laboratories, expert mentors, and active collaboration with the Swiss government on cyber-defence strategies.

CYD Fellowship Types and Benefits

1. Master’s Thesis Fellowship

• Duration: 6 months

• Eligibility: Master’s students enrolled in Swiss institutions

• Benefits: Living allowance, research support

• Deadline: Rolling basis – Apply anytime

2. Doctoral Fellowship

• Duration: 4 years (extendable by 1 year)

• Eligibility: Master’s degree holders enrolling in a PhD program at a Swiss university

• Benefits: Full salary, research funding, conference travel grants

• Deadline: 20 August 2025

3. Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship

• Duration: Up to 2 years

• Eligibility: Researchers with a completed PhD and a strong academic publication record

• Benefits: Postdoctoral salary, project funding, support for conference participation

• Deadline: 20 August 2025

Who Can Apply?

The CYD Fellowships 2025 are open to applicants of all nationalities with a strong academic background and a passion for cyber-defence research.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrated academic excellence

• A well-structured research proposal relevant to national cyber-defence

• Strong interest in areas like cybersecurity, quantum cryptography, blockchain, or AI in defence

• Must be enrolled or planning to enroll at a Swiss academic institution

• Commitment to contributing to Switzerland’s national and European cyber-resilience goals

Preferred research domains include:

Cybersecurity, Machine learning for defence, Quantum encryption, Digital forensics, Blockchain technologies, Critical infrastructure protection, Military-grade communication systems.

How to Apply for CYD Fellowships 2025

To apply successfully, follow these steps:

1. Download the Application Toolkit

• Master’s Thesis Fellowship Toolkit

• Doctoral & Postdoctoral Fellowship Toolkit (11th Call)

2. Prepare Required Documents

• Updated CV/Resume

• Detailed research proposal

• Academic transcripts

• Confirmation of supervisor support (if applicable)

3. Submit Online

• Visit the official CYD Fellowship Submission Portal

• Fill out your application form and upload the necessary documents

4. Deadlines to Remember

• PhD & Postdoc Deadline: 20 August 2025 (by 17:00 CEST)

• Master Thesis Fellowship: No fixed deadline, applications accepted on a rolling basis

• Next Call Opens: 3 December 2025

Why Choose CYD Fellowships in Switzerland?

Here are the top reasons to apply for this prestigious fellowship program:

• Work alongside top cyber-defence researchers at globally renowned institutions like EPFL and ETH Zurich

• Access to advanced labs and research equipment designed for real-world applications

• Collaborate on national and international security projects

• Secure generous financial support including living allowance, full salaries, and travel funding

• Play a vital role in protecting Europe’s digital infrastructure against cyber threats

About CYD Campus and EPFL

The Cyber-Defence Campus (CYD) is an initiative of the Swiss Federal Department of Defence, designed to bring together experts from academia, industry, and government to forecast cyber threats and develop innovative security technologies.

EPFL ranks among the top global technical universities, known for excellence in AI, quantum computing, software systems, and information security. With an ecosystem that encourages innovation, collaboration, and interdisciplinary research, EPFL offers an ideal environment for ambitious researchers.

Final Thoughts

If you are eager to make a lasting impact in the world of cybersecurity and digital resilience, the CYD Fellowships 2025 are a golden opportunity. With full financial support, access to world-class institutions, and the chance to work on national defence research, this program is a stepping stone to a meaningful and rewarding career.

Apply Now