Imagine waking up in Paris, sipping espresso before diving into groundbreaking research alongside some of the brightest minds in Europe — all while being paid to do it. That’s exactly what the Chateaubriand Fellowship Program 2026 offers to ambitious PhD students studying in the United States who dream of expanding their research horizons internationally.
What Is the Chateaubriand Fellowship?
The Chateaubriand Fellowship is a prestigious research exchange program funded by the Embassy of France in the United States. It invites exceptional U.S.-based PhD students to conduct part of their research in France — a country known for its rich academic heritage, innovation, and breathtaking culture.
The fellowship bridges two continents, empowering young researchers to collaborate across disciplines and borders. Whether you’re working in STEM, biology and health, or humanities and social sciences (HSS), this is your chance to bring your research to life in world-class French laboratories and universities.
Why It’s a Dream Opportunity?
The 2026 Chateaubriand Fellowship isn’t just a grant — it’s a life-changing academic adventure. Fellows receive:
- Round-trip travel to France — all expenses covered.
- Generous monthly stipend to support your stay.
- Comprehensive health insurance while you’re in France.
- Access to elite research environments and mentorship from leading French scholars.
You’ll spend 4 to 9 months fully immersed in French academic life — collaborating on joint projects, publishing international papers, and building networks that can shape your entire career.
Who Can Apply?
This fellowship is tailor-made for PhD students enrolled in U.S. universities who want to elevate their research with an international perspective. You don’t need to speak French — English-friendly research environments are common across France’s top institutions.
Two categories are available:
- STEM & Health Sciences Track – for students in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and biomedical fields.
- Humanities & Social Sciences Track (HSS) – for scholars exploring the human experience through history, philosophy, arts, politics, and beyond.
Application Dates to Remember
Applications for the Chateaubriand Fellowship 2026–2027 are now open. The last date to apply is January 25, 2026 (11:59 PM EST) — and trust us, this deadline comes faster than you think!
Selected fellows will embark on their French research journey later in 2026, marking the start of a new chapter in their academic lives.