Role Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship (Industrial)
Location: Canada (Relocation Required)
Value: $170,000 CAD (over 2 years)
Eligibility: Researchers currently residing OUTSIDE Canada
Call Opens: March 2026
Deadline: May 2026
Application Status: Upcoming (Prepare Now)
Overview of the Opportunity
Mitacs, Canada's leading innovation organization, has announced a prestigious new funding opportunity: the Mitacs Accelerate Global Excellence Award. This initiative is designed to bring the world's top research talent to Canada to participate in high-impact industrial fellowships.
This award is specifically focused on the commercialization of leading-edge science and technology. It targets key sectors including AI, Quantum Computing, Clean Tech, Advanced Manufacturing, Cybersecurity, Agri-Tech, and Life Sciences. If you are a researcher abroad looking to apply your skills in the Canadian industry, this is one of the most lucrative pathways available.
Financial Package & Benefits
The total value of the fellowship is $170,000 CAD over a two-year project duration. This is significantly higher than standard postdoc stipends to account for the prestige of the talent and relocation costs.
Annual Breakdown ($85,000 per year)
- Stipend/Salary: Minimum of $70,000 per year goes directly to the researcher.
- Research & Relocation: Up to $15,000 per year is available to cover research costs and help with moving expenses to Canada.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
This award is strictly for talent currently outside of Canada. It serves as a talent attraction vehicle.
1. Residency Status (Strict)
- Outside Canada: You must currently reside outside of Canada.
- Nationality: Open to international researchers AND Canadian citizens who are currently studying/working abroad and wish to return ("Brain Gain").
- Relocation: You must be willing to relocate to Canada for the fellowship.
2. Academic Status
- PhD Graduate: You must be within five years of completing your PhD.
3. Partner Organization
- You must secure a partnership with a Canadian organization. Eligible partners include for-profit corporations, non-profits, hospitals, and municipalities.
Timeline & Selection
This is a highly competitive, time-limited call. Only 50 unique awards will be offered for the 2026-27 cycle.
- Call Opens: March 2026
- Call Closes: May 2026
- Selection: Competitive review process.
Note for Researchers ALREADY in Canada
If you are currently living in Canada, you are not eligible for the Global Excellence Award. However, Mitacs has a separate offer for you:
- Opportunity: Mitacs Accelerate Industry Postdoc.
- Value: Up to $75,000 per year for 3 years.
- Deadline: December 19, 2025.
How to Apply
The competitive call for the Global Excellence Award opens in March 2026. Interested researchers should start networking with potential Canadian industry partners and academic supervisors now to prepare a strong proposal.