Apr 2, 2026
U of T’s newest Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellows are harnessing AI to revolutionize everything from sustainable development to expanding our understanding of the Milky Way.
The University of Toronto’s latest cohort of Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellows is at the forefront of transformative research. Their work spans critical areas such as climate adaptation, sustainable water management, and exploring the formation and evolution of the Milky Way.
“In collaboration with Schmidt Sciences, U of T is fostering a safe and responsible environment for AI research, empowering emerging scholars to push the limits of innovation and discovery,” remarked Timothy Chan, U of T’s associate vice-president and vice-provost of strategic initiatives.
Powering the Next Generation of AI-Driven Research
Initiated in 2022 by Schmidt Sciences—a philanthropic project led by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and his wife, Wendy—the Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship program aims to propel the next generation of scientific research powered by AI.
This initiative is funded by a significant gift across nine partner universities, designed to expedite AI-driven breakthroughs across various scientific fields. It provides early-career scholars in engineering, mathematics, and natural sciences with collaborative research prospects, a comprehensive schedule of workshops, seminars, and conferences, along with practical training in AI applications. The University of Toronto stands as the only Canadian institution in this program.
“We are witnessing firsthand how this fellowship offers early-career scientists a unique opportunity to explore innovative approaches and expand the boundaries of discovery,” said Lisa Strug, director of U of T’s Data Sciences Institute and co-lead of the Schmidt AI in Science Fellowship program.
Fellows Sharing Innovative Research with Global Impact
The inaugural cohort of Schmidt AI in Science Fellows has moved on to new opportunities, while the second cohort is in their final year, focusing on communicating their groundbreaking research. They have actively participated in international conferences, delivering invited talks and engaging in panel discussions. Four members of the second cohort received a competitive workshop grant from Schmidt Sciences, successfully conducting a workshop on foundation models in November 2025.
The newly formed third cohort comprises 11 researchers who bring fresh expertise and ambition, sparking excitement about the potential impacts of their work.
“Equipped with cutting-edge AI tools and training, this remarkable group of scientists is poised to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges with innovative solutions,” commented Alán Aspuru-Guzik, director of U of T’s Acceleration Consortium and co-lead of the Schmidt AI in Science Postdoctoral Fellowship program.
Meet the Fellows Advancing AI Across Disciplines
The University of Toronto’s commitment to fostering innovation through AI research is clearly demonstrated in this fellowship program. As these talented fellows continue to explore and share their groundbreaking findings, they are poised to make significant contributions to a range of scientific disciplines. Their impact will be felt not only within academia but also on a global scale as they work to address urgent challenges facing our world today.
