The two organisations will fund 20 fellows per year as part of the program, which is open to new international researchers who are expected to commence a post-doctorate at Israeli universities.

Through this, the country hopes to attract “top young recent PhD graduates to take on a postdoctoral position with leading scientists and scholars in Israel on cutting-edge research in all fields of science, social science and humanities”.

“Excellent postdoctoral researchers are fundamental to cutting-edge, innovative research”

“Excellent postdoctoral researchers are fundamental to cutting-edge, innovative research,” said Yaffa Zilbershats, chair of the Planning & Budgeting Committee of the Council for Higher Education of Israel.

“The new post-doc fellowship program launched together with the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities signifies Israel’s commitment to international scientific exchange and the advancement of research in Israeli universities.

“We welcome the best and the brightest young researchers from all over the world to take part in the world-class research being conducted in Israel.”

Among the 20 fellowships, 15 will be specifically for STEM subjects which five will be allocated to humanities and social sciences. Each fellowship will be awarded for two years at the cost of $47,000 annually.

Fellows will also be able to take part in activities such as day trips, seminars, workshops and social events.

“With this program, The Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities is continuing its commitment to advancing science in Israel, expanding its investment in outstanding young researchers, and strengthening international scientific cooperation,” said Nili Cohen, president of the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities.

“Together with the Council for Higher Education of Israel, we will bring excelling students from around the world to join Israel’s research universities, where they can pursue and advance science and scholarship of the highest caliber, while interacting and engaging with Israel’s world-class researchers.”

The deadline for materials to be submitted by universities by to the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities is February 1, 2021.