2026 INSAIT Graduate Research Fellowship Fully Funded in Europe (Deadline: Ongoing)

This fellowship places you inside an international research institute modeled after top labs at MIT, Caltech, and ETH Zurich, with direct faculty mentorship and strong chances of co-authoring a research paper.

INSAIT Summer Research Fellowship Summary

What Is the INSAIT Graduate Research Fellowship?

The INSAIT GRF is a 6 to 12-month, on-site research fellowship for highly motivated graduate students from around the world. Fellows work closely with INSAIT faculty on active research projects in artificial intelligence, computer science, and emerging technologies.

Unlike short-term internships, this program focuses on deep research, with the final goal often being submission to top-tier conferences or journals.

Why INSAIT Is Getting Global Attention

INSAIT (Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology) has quickly become one of Eastern Europe’s most respected research hubs. It collaborates with global institutions, including MIT CSAIL, and attracts faculty trained at leading universities worldwide.

What sets INSAIT apart is its emphasis on:

• High-impact research
• International research culture
• Strong mentorship
• Publication-oriented outcomes

For students planning PhDs or research careers, this environment matters.

Fellowship Duration and Location

• Duration: 6 to 12 months
• Location: Sofia, Bulgaria
• Mode: Fully on-site (remote work is not allowed)

All fellows are required to be physically present at INSAIT to fully engage in research activities and seminars.

Monthly Stipend and Financial Support

Selected fellows receive a monthly gross stipend of €3,307, which is sufficient to cover living expenses in Sofia.

Additional benefits include:

• Accommodation arranged and covered for the first two weeks
• Visa assistance for international students
• Travel support to Bulgaria

This makes the program accessible even for students without external funding.

Research Areas Available

INSAIT offers research opportunities across a wide range of high-demand fields, including:

• Machine Learning
• Secure and Trustworthy AI
• Computer Vision and Robotics
• Algorithms and Theory
• Quantum Computing
• Information Security and Cryptography
• Regulatory AI Compliance

Applicants are matched with mentors based on research interests and background.

Who Can Apply?

You are eligible if you:

• Are currently enrolled in a Master’s program or graduated within the last 12 months
• Have a background in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or Statistics
• Are willing to relocate to Sofia for the full duration

INSAIT strongly encourages applications from female students and groups historically underrepresented in STEM.

There is no preference for local students. International applicants are evaluated equally.

Application Timeline and Selection Process

• Applications are accepted on a rolling basis
• Results are typically announced within one month
• Shortlisted candidates attend an online interview
• Selected applicants have five days to confirm participation

Once accepted, fellows coordinate directly with their mentor to finalize the project scope and start date.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents in PDF format:

• Updated CV
• Unofficial transcript or Master’s diploma

No recommendation letters are required at the initial stage.

Program Deliverables

During the fellowship, participants are expected to complete:

• A structured project plan at the beginning
• A final research report, written in the format of a conference paper
• A final presentation delivered as part of the INSAIT seminar series

Many fellows continue working on their research even after the official end of the program.

Can You Take a Break During the Program?

Vacation time is possible, but it must be approved by your research mentor. Since the program is research-intensive, scheduling should be discussed early.

Why This Fellowship Is Worth Applying For

The INSAIT Graduate Research Fellowship is not just funding. It is a serious research opportunity that strengthens your profile for:

• PhD applications
• Academic publications
• Research scientist roles
• AI and deep-tech careers

Few programs offer this level of mentorship, funding, and research depth in Europe without tuition or application fees.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official INSAIT online platform.

For questions, applicants can contact:
contact@insait.ai

If you are aiming for a future in AI research, machine learning, or advanced computer science, the INSAIT Graduate Research Fellowship is an opportunity you should not miss.

Tip for applicants: A focused CV highlighting research skills, projects, and tools relevant to INSAIT’s research areas significantly improves your chances.