At MIT, we are reimagining what’s possible in the life sciences.
The MIT-Novo Nordisk Artificial Intelligence Postdoctoral Fellows Program invites visionary researchers to redefine what’s possible at the intersection of AI, data science, and the life sciences.
This unique program emerged from a powerful collaboration between MIT’s School of Engineering and Novo Nordisk—a global health care leader with a century-long legacy of innovation. It is part of the broader MIT Health and Life Sciences Collaborative (MIT HEALS), which unites researchers from across the Institute to pioneer transformative solutions in health care.
By drawing on MIT’s deep strengths in life sciences, AI, and chemical and biological engineering, this program aims to accelerate discovery and translate breakthroughs into real-world impact, advancing the future of patient care.
Why choose this program?
The MIT-Novo Nordisk Artificial Intelligence Postdoctoral Fellows Program is more than a prestigious postdoctoral experience—it’s a launchpad for innovative thinkers who are ready to push boundaries, challenge assumptions, and shape the future of human health.
- Redefine Human Health: This fellowship enables postdocs to explore high-impact research at the intersection of AI, data science, and the life sciences. Fellows are encouraged to pursue trailblazing concepts that have the potential to revolutionize patient care and drive the next generation of health innovation.
- Access an Unrivaled Research Ecosystem: Fellows are immersed in one of the world’s most dynamic academic environments. They collaborate with leading faculty and research groups across MIT’s five schools and the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing, gaining access to world-class tools, interdisciplinary networks, and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Launch a Visionary Career: This program is designed to spark long-term impact. Fellows build lasting connections with thought leaders in academia and industry, positioning themselves to drive transformative advances in health and technology well beyond their time at MIT.
- Accelerate Impact with Robust Support: Fueled by a $10 million investment, the program provides exceptional resources to support both research and professional growth, including:
- A competitive two-year stipend starting at $75,000 per year.
- Additional funding for travel, conferences, and research tools.
- Personalized mentorship, career development workshops, and programming.
What sets this fellowship apart?
This program offers more than resources—it offers a mindset, a community, and a springboard for lasting impact. Fellows are encouraged to think expansively, take intellectual risks, and pursue ideas with the power to change lives.
- Pursue groundbreaking research: Whether working on AI-powered drug discovery, digital health platforms, or emerging medical technologies, fellows are empowered to pursue research across a wide range of disciplines, unlocking new possibilities in science and medicine.
- Shape a path with expert guidance: Each fellow works closely with a faculty advisor who provides tailored mentorship, helping shape both the scientific direction and the fellow’s long-term career trajectory. This close partnership supports creativity, focus, and forward momentum.
- Connect with today’s pioneers: Fellows engage directly with leading voices in health tech and biomedicine—including startup founders, venture capitalists, and entrepreneurs—through workshops and events designed to spark insight and action.
- Join a curious, collaborative community: The program brings together postdocs from a range of disciplines and backgrounds. This cross-pollination of ideas fuels innovation, creates lasting professional relationships, and enriches the research experience.
- Advance with the right tools and support: In addition to funding for professional development and travel, fellows have access to advanced research infrastructure—from specialized lab equipment to cutting-edge computational tools—ensuring they have everything needed to accelerate their work.
Eligibility and Application Details
Who should apply?
- Graduate students within one year of completing their PhD.
- Recent PhD graduates are within one year of earning their degree.
- Researchers in industry who want to pivot within a year of completing their PhD.
MIT is deeply committed to cultivating a vibrant intellectual community enriched by various perspectives and experiences. We encourage applications from talented individuals—both domestic and international—whose unique backgrounds, viewpoints, and expertise strengthen teams, expand opportunity, and fuel discovery.
How should applicants identify a faculty mentor?
Building strong connections with MIT faculty is an important part of the application process—and often a key ingredient in a successful fellowship experience. Applicants are encouraged to explore faculty whose research aligns with their interests, particularly those working at the intersection of AI and the life sciences, and to take the initiative to reach out directly. These early conversations can provide valuable insights and help shape the direction of an applicant’s goals.
In their application materials, candidates should share which faculty they’ve contacted, how those discussions have influenced their thinking, and who they see as well-positioned to help them build the skills they hope to gain through the fellowship. The program team is also here to help, whether by continuing a conversation or facilitating a new connection.
When are applications accepted?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Have questions?
For questions about the MIT-Novo Nordisk Postdoc Program, please contact: novo-postdoc-apps@mit.edu.