Application Deadline: 20 October 2026
Early-career researchers interested in sustainability science, environmental policy, climate solutions, and interdisciplinary research now have an exciting opportunity to work with one of the world’s leading universities. Cornell University is inviting applications for the Cornell Atkinson Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sustainability 2027, a prestigious fellowship that provides an annual salary of up to $65,000 together with additional research support.
The fellowship is designed for scholars who want to advance innovative research that addresses major sustainability challenges affecting communities, economies, and ecosystems worldwide.
Fellowship Summary
| Item | Details |
| Host Institution | Cornell University, United States |
| Programme | Cornell Atkinson Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sustainability 2027 |
| Fellowship Type | Fully funded postdoctoral fellowship |
| Annual Salary | Up to $65,000 |
| Additional Support | Research funding and professional development support |
| Eligible Applicants | Recent PhD graduates and early-career researchers |
| Application Deadline | 20 October 2026 |
About the Fellowship
The Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability supports research that tackles urgent global challenges such as climate change, food security, energy transitions, biodiversity loss, water resources, public health, and sustainable development. Fellows become part of a collaborative research environment that connects scientists, engineers, social scientists, policy experts, and practitioners.
Selected fellows will conduct independent research while collaborating with faculty mentors across Cornell University’s colleges and research institutes.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a competitive package that includes:
- Annual salary of up to $65,000
- Dedicated research funding
- Access to Cornell University’s laboratories, libraries, and research facilities
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
- Mentorship from leading sustainability scholars
- Professional development and networking opportunities
- Participation in seminars, workshops, and sustainability initiatives
This fellowship offers both financial support and a strong academic platform for launching a long-term research career.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants are generally expected to:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree by the start of the fellowship
- Have completed the PhD recently (typically within the last few years)
- Demonstrate strong research achievements and publication potential
- Propose research that aligns with sustainability themes
- Be interested in interdisciplinary collaboration and societal impact
Researchers from all countries are encouraged to apply.
Eligible Research Areas
Cornell welcomes proposals in a broad range of sustainability-related fields, including:
- Climate change mitigation and adaptation
- Renewable energy and energy systems
- Sustainable agriculture and food systems
- Water resources management
- Environmental economics and policy
- Biodiversity conservation
- Circular economy and waste reduction
- Urban sustainability
- Public health and environmental justice
- Sustainable technology and innovation
Projects that integrate multiple disciplines are especially encouraged.
Application Requirements
Applicants should prepare the following materials:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Research proposal or statement of research interests
- Cover letter or personal statement
- Academic transcripts (if requested)
- Contact details for referees or recommendation letters (as specified in the application form)
Carefully review the application instructions before submission.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official application portal:
Apply here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/31b738dc2ef46a9a560be468acca4b30
Applicants are advised to submit well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is 20 October 2026.
Late applications are unlikely to be considered, so early preparation is strongly recommended.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
Cornell University is internationally recognized for excellence in sustainability research. The fellowship provides:
- Competitive funding,
- Access to world-class faculty,
- A vibrant interdisciplinary community,
- And opportunities to translate research into real-world impact.
For researchers seeking a high-impact postdoctoral position in the United States, this programme represents a valuable opportunity to strengthen their academic profile and contribute to solving global sustainability challenges.
Final Thoughts
The Cornell Atkinson Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sustainability 2027 is an excellent opportunity for talented researchers who want to build a career in sustainability science and policy. With an annual salary of up to $65,000, research funding, and access to Cornell University’s extensive academic resources, the fellowship offers a strong foundation for meaningful and influential research.
If your work addresses environmental, social, or economic sustainability challenges, consider preparing your application early and submitting it before 20 October 2026.
