Santa Fe Institute Opens Applications for the 2027 Complexity Postdoctoral Fellowship

Early-career researchers interested in tackling some of the world’s most complex scientific and societal challenges are invited to apply for the 2027 Complexity Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Santa Fe Institute (SFI).

The fellowship offers an opportunity for researchers to pursue independent, interdisciplinary research while becoming part of one of the world’s leading centres for complexity science. Fellows join a collaborative research community that brings together experts from diverse disciplines, including mathematics, computer science, biology, physics, economics, social sciences, and network science.

About the Fellowship

The Santa Fe Institute’s Complexity Postdoctoral Fellowship is designed for researchers who are interested in understanding complex systems and addressing questions that extend beyond the boundaries of a single academic discipline.

The program provides fellows with:

• A full-time research appointment for up to three years.
• The freedom to pursue independent research while collaborating with scientists across multiple disciplines.
• Mentorship from internationally recognised researchers.
• Professional development opportunities, including leadership and communication training.
• Funding to support research activities and conference participation.

Researchers are encouraged to develop innovative ideas while engaging with a vibrant scientific community known for advancing research on complex systems.

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship is open to researchers from around the world who have completed, or expect to complete, a PhD before the fellowship begins.

Successful applicants should demonstrate:

• Strong research achievements in their field.
• Quantitative, computational, or theoretical research skills.
• An interest in interdisciplinary collaboration.
• The ability to contribute to research on complex systems.

Applicants from all nationalities are encouraged to apply. International fellows may be sponsored for a J-1 visa where applicable.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Many of today’s global challenges, including infectious disease, climate change, artificial intelligence, sustainable development, financial systems, and social dynamics, cannot be solved through a single discipline alone. Complexity science provides researchers with the opportunity to work across traditional academic boundaries, bringing together diverse perspectives to generate new insights.

For African researchers, fellowships such as this provide more than research funding. They offer opportunities to collaborate internationally, strengthen research networks, develop leadership skills, and contribute African perspectives to conversations shaping the future of science.

As interdisciplinary research continues to grow in importance, programmes like the Santa Fe Institute’s Complexity Postdoctoral Fellowship create valuable pathways for early-career scientists seeking to make meaningful contributions to global research.

U.S. citizenship is not a requirement; however, you must be legally able to work in the US. SFI will sponsor a J1 Visa for successful candidates. SFI is not able to sponsor an H1B Visa for candidates.