Peking University Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship: Complete Call for Applications

Introduction

The Peking University Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship is one of the most prestigious and competitive postdoctoral programs in China, designed to attract outstanding early-career researchers from across the globe. Established to foster innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, this fellowship provides a unique platform for scholars to engage in advanced research while contributing to Peking University’s vibrant academic community. For the 2025 cycle, Peking University offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers to secure fully funded, two-year appointments that include generous financial support, world-class research facilities, and strong mentorship from leading experts in their respective fields. Fellows will not only have access to PKU’s extensive academic resources but will also be integrated into collaborative networks that drive global advancements in science, technology, social sciences, and the humanities.

This fellowship underscores Peking University’s commitment to academic excellence and global research leadership, enabling scholars to push the boundaries of discovery and innovation. Whether your expertise lies in the natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, business, or interdisciplinary fields, the Boya Fellowship provides a strategic pathway for postdoctoral training, career growth, and meaningful contributions to cutting-edge research.

Peking University invites outstanding early-career researchers to apply for the 2025 Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship. This highly competitive opportunity provides two years of generous support, competitive salary, housing

benefits, and a dynamic academic environment. Apply early and join a global community of scholars advancing world-class research and innovation.

Program Overview

Broad Disciplinary Reach

Since its inception in 2016, the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship has supported promising researchers across a wide spectrum of disciplines. Opportunities are available in natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, economics, humanities, information technology, and interdisciplinary fields, underscoring PKU’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and diversity.

Generous Support Package

For the 2025 cohort, up to 380 fellowships will be awarded. Key benefits include:

- 24-month appointment with a secure, full-time research contract.
- Annual pre-tax salary of RMB 200,000.
- Comprehensive social insurance and housing benefits.
- Additional annual housing subsidy of RMB 60,000 if on-campus housing is unavailable.
- Supervisor-funded performance supplements of RMB 30,000, 60,000, or 90,000 per year, awarded based on research performance and academic potential.

This structure ensures fellows can focus on research while benefiting from a financially supportive environment.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Upon completing the fellowship, outstanding fellows may advance within PKU’s postdoctoral career track. This pathway opens opportunities for long-term

academic appointments and leadership roles in both research and teaching.

Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria

Who Can Apply

- Researchers of any nationality under the age of 35.
- Holders of a PhD awarded within the last three years.
- Current PKU postdoctoral fellows may apply if their existing contract will end within six months of the application deadline.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are assessed holistically on:

- Academic excellence and evidence of significant scholarly achievements.
- Quality and originality of the research proposal, with preference given to projects aligning with PKU’s research strengths.
- Support from a qualified PKU supervisor, demonstrating mentorship commitment.
- Strong recommendations, including one from the applicant’s doctoral advisor emphasizing academic integrity and research capability.

Application Rounds and Timeline

The program follows a two-round application schedule each year:

Round One (First Wave)

- Application Period: January 1 – February 28
- Preliminary Review Results: by March 20
- Final Decisions: by mid-April

justify;">Round Two (Second Wave)

- Application Period: September 1 – October 10
- Preliminary Review Results: by November 10
- Final Decisions: by late November

Note: Dates are approximate and based on historical patterns. The next cycle is expected to follow this timeline, but final dates will be updated once officially released.

Required Application Materials

Applicants must compile the following documents in Chinese or English, formatted into one PDF file:

1. Completed Application Form for the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship.
2. Endorsement Letter from Supervisor, detailing the candidate’s qualifications, research strengths, and intended collaboration plan.
3. Two Recommendation Letters, one of which must be from the PhD advisor and sent directly by referees to the designated coordinator.
4. Additional documents, such as an updated CV, detailed research proposal, and list of publications, as requested by the host department.

All submissions must be sent via email to the coordinator of the relevant academic unit at PKU.

Coordinator Contact Details

Each school or department at PKU

assigns a coordinator to handle applications. Examples include:

- School of Computer Science: Mr. Shi – [email protected]
- College of Chemistry: Ms. Jiang – [email protected]

For other departments, consult the official fellowship announcement for accurate and updated contact details.

Strategic Tips for Applicants

1. Engage with your potential supervisor early to secure strong institutional support and discuss research goals.
2. Develop a focused, high-impact proposal, highlighting innovation, feasibility, and alignment with PKU’s strengths.
3. Apply early, leaving time for thorough review and revisions.
4. Prepare recommendation letters well in advance to ensure timely submission and quality endorsements.
5. Highlight measurable impact in your research proposal, supported by realistic timelines and achievable milestones.

Review Schedule and Update Plan

To ensure this guide remains current and authoritative:

- December–January: Update cycle timelines and fellowship quotas.
- Post-Announcement: Add profiles of newly selected fellows and updates on research achievements.
- Mid-Year: Include reminders and resources for applicants preparing for the next cycle.

Summary

The 2025 Peking University Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship is a rare and prestigious opportunity for early-career researchers seeking to expand their academic experience within a world-class institution. Offering substantial financial support, access to exceptional resources, and a pathway to advanced academic positions, this program equips scholars for long-term success.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare a well-structured application, engage with potential supervisors early, and monitor official updates for any changes in requirements or deadlines.

Conclusion

The 2025 Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship at Peking University stands out as an exceptional platform for academic growth and global collaboration. By aligning your research with PKU’s strengths and preparing a competitive, forward-looking proposal, you can join a network of leading scholars driving innovation worldwide.

Feature	Details
Program Name	Peking University Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship
Host Country	China
Funded By	Peking University
Duration	24 months (full-time)
Study Mode	On-campus, full-time research
Eligibility	Researchers under 35 with a PhD awarded within the last 3 years or PKU postdocs nearing contract completion
Financial Support	RMB 200,000 annual salary, social insurance, housing or allowance (RMB 60,000), and performance-based supplements up to RMB 90,000 annually
Fields of Study	Natural Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences, Humanities, Business, Information Technology, Interdisciplinary Research
Application Rounds	Round 1: January–February; Round 2: September–November 10, 2025
Official Website	Peking University Postdoctoral Office website

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Peking University Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship is a fully funded two-year program supporting early-career researchers in diverse academic fields at Peking University.

Who can apply for the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship?

Researchers under 35 with a PhD awarded within the past three years, or current PKU postdocs nearing contract completion, can apply.

Is the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship fully funded?

Yes, the fellowship covers a competitive salary, housing or housing allowance, social insurance, and performance-based research supplements.

What is the duration of the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The fellowship offers a full-time, two-year postdoctoral research appointment with opportunities for renewal or career progression.

What fields are covered under the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship?

It supports research in natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, business, information technology, and interdisciplinary studies.

When do applications for the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship open?

Applications open twice yearly, in January and September, with deadlines typically in February and October, respectively.

What documents are required for the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship?

Applicants need an application form, supervisor endorsement letter, two recommendation letters, a CV, research proposal, and publication list.

How competitive is the Boya Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The program is highly competitive, selecting candidates with exceptional academic records, innovative research proposals, and strong institutional support.

How much financial support does the fellowship provide?

Fellows receive an annual pre-tax salary of RMB 200,000, housing support, and potential supervisor supplements of up to RMB 90,000 annually.

How can applicants improve their chances of selection?

Start early, secure strong supervisor support, write a targeted and impactful proposal, and request recommendation letters well in advance.

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