International Fulbright Science and Technology Award

The Fulbright Foundation in Greece is pleased to announce a new International Fulbright Science and Technology Award for outstanding foreign students.  The award is designed to be among the most prestigious international scholarships in science and technology.  The International Fulbright Science and Technology award is for PhD study at top U.S. institutions in science, technology, or engineering.  The program is funded by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the State Department (ECA) and aims to convey the message that the U.S. remains the premier destination for serious scientific study and research, and that America not only welcomes top notch talent, we encourage future leaders to shape their careers here.  For 2009, approximately 40 awards will be competed worldwide for candidates who demonstrate unique aptitude and innovation in scientific fields.  A worldwide competition for 2009 is conducted to select top Science and Technology Award PhD participants eligible for study at prestigious U.S. institutions.  Deadline for applications is May 29, 2008.

PROGRAM DESIGN: The Fulbright Foundation is now soliciting nominations for candidates to participate in the FY 2009 Fulbright International Science and Technology Program.  Grantees will be enrolled for PhD study at top U.S. universities in the fields of science, technology, or engineering for academic year 2009-2010.  The International Fulbright Science and Technology Award is a worldwide program.  Eligible fields include: aeronautics and astronomics/aeronautical engineering, astronomy/planetary sciences, biology, biomedical engineering, chemistry, computer sciences/engineering, energy, engineering (electrical, chemical, civil, mechanical, ocean, and petroleum), environmental science/engineering, geology/earth and atmospheric sciences, information sciences/engineering, materials science/engineering, mathematics, neuroscience/brain and cognitive sciences, oceanography, public health (theoretical research focus only) and physics.  The Office of Academic Exchange Programs (ECA/A/E) will fund grants for up to three years for this competition.  After three years, U.S. universities will be expected to cover the remaining expenses toward completion of a PhD.  Placement of students will be handled by the Institute of International Education (IIE).

ELIGIBILITY:  Applicants must be citizens of Greece and must apply through the Fulbright Foundation.  Applicants will have completed an undergraduate degree before August 1, 2009, with a Grade Point Average of at least 8.0/10 and be proficient in English with a recent TOEFL score (or equivalent) of 580 or higher (237 on CBT or 92 iBT).  A GRE General Exam score will be required of at least 700 in the quantitative section.  A GRE Subject Exam score will also be needed for all candidates in the following fields of study:  biology, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics and physics.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES & PACKAGE:  Each applicant will be required to submit an online application at https://apply.embark.com/student/fulbright/international along will all supporting documents.  A complete application includes:

-- An online application (completed with a clearly written research objective and a professional resume)

-- Three letters of reference

-- Official academic transcripts from each post-secondary institution attended

-- English Language test scores (TOEFL or IELTS)

-- GRE General Exam test scores
-- GRE Subject Exam (if applicable) test scores

Once submitted, Fulbright Foundations will review and nominate candidates.  Approved candidates will then be forwarded to both the U.S-based screening committee and ECA for review and FSB approval.

NOMINATION AND SELECTION CRITERIA: Initial screenings should be conducted by the Fulbright Foundation, 6 Vas. Sophias Avenue, 106 74 Athens. 

U.S. SCREENING AND SELECTION: ECA will review all principal and alternate nominees and IIE will conduct a technical review of all nominee applications.  Up to two principal and one alternate nominees from each country will be reviewed by a U.S.-based selection committee, which will include prominent academics and professionals in the appropriate scientific fields.  Selection of principal and alternate nominees will be determined by September 30, 2008.  Candidates will be notified of their status by October 15, 2008.

U.S. UNIVERSITY PLACEMENT: The Institute of International Education (IIE), a Fulbright cooperating agency, will be responsible for placement of all Fulbright Science and Technology award nominees.  IIE will work closely with Fulbright Foundations and nominees to ensure the best placement available for the nominee’s field of study and research interests. ECA will approve of all final placements.

VISA SPONSORSHIP:  Grantees will receive J-1 visa sponsorship under the Fulbright Student Program for up to five year.  After five years, if necessary, ECA will transfer sponsorship to the host university assuming satisfactory continuing progress toward Ph.D. completion.  Grantees not able to secure an entry visa to arrive in time for their program start date may lose their fellowships.  Selected candidates must provide IIE with a valid passport prior to the issuance of form DS 2019.

FUNDING: All grantees receive tuition, a monthly stipend for up to 36 months, health and accident coverage, a book and equipment allowance, professional conference allowance, travel support, specially tailored enrichment activities and are eligible to apply for additional research funding.  After three years, U.S. universities will be expected to cover the remaining expenses toward completion of a PhD.