The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado Boulder announces the highly sought-after CIRES Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships 2026. This prestigious fellowship offers excellent opportunities for postdoctoral researchers worldwide to conduct cutting-edge environmental science research in collaboration with CIRES and NOAA laboratories in Boulder, Colorado. This article provides all essential details for applicants, including deadlines, eligibility, benefits, application process, and tips to help you succeed.
Basic Information about the CIRES Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships 2026
CIRES Visiting Fellowships are competitive two-year fellowships intended for postdoctoral researchers to engage in interdisciplinary environmental research. These fellowships foster collaboration with top CIRES scientists and access to Boulder’s NOAA labs. Applications open October 20, 2025, and close January 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM MST. Recommendation letters must be submitted by January 8, 2026. Results will be announced in spring 2026.
- Location: CIRES, University of Colorado Boulder & NOAA labs, Boulder, Colorado
- Purpose: Bring scientists for interdisciplinary environmental research with CIRES researchers.
University and Institution Details
The sponsoring institution is the University of Colorado Boulder, a leading research university with a renowned environmental science institute—CIRES. CIRES is a cooperative institute jointly sponsored by NOAA and the university, focusing on diverse environmental and earth science disciplines. The institute provides a vibrant scientific community in Boulder featuring state-of-the-art labs and collaborative opportunities with NOAA scientists.
Study Areas and Available Programs
The fellowship supports research across a broad range of environmental science fields, including but not limited to:
- Atmospheric Sciences
- Climate and Global Change
- Cryospheric Science (ice and snow studies)
- Environmental Chemistry
- Hydrology and Water Resources
- Ecosystem and Environmental Health
- Geological and Geophysical Sciences
- Remote Sensing and Earth Observation
Applicants must propose research aligned with CIRES priorities and collaborate with a CIRES sponsor scientist.
CIRES Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships Benefits
Successful CIRES Postdoctoral Fellows receive substantial support, including:
- 2-year term
- Salary: $70,000 first year (increase in second year)
- Research budget: up to $8,000
- Laptop provided
- Relocation stipend (individual only)
- Access to CIRES facilities, NOAA laboratories, and the vibrant research community in Boulder.
- Opportunity to present research at the CIRES Rendezvous Science Symposium or seminars.
Benefits Not Included
Certain costs and benefits are not covered by the fellowship:
- Health insurance and family relocation expenses are the responsibility of the fellow.
- Dependent or family support is not provided.
- Living expenses such as rent, utilities, and food are not directly included in the fellowship package.
Eligibility Criteria for the CIRES Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- PhD completed within the last 4 years (exceptions for caregiving or special circumstances)
- Postdoctoral researchers (2-year fellowships)
- Senior scientists on sabbatical (up to 12 months)
- PhD must align with CIRES research areas
- Strong requirement: You must have a CIRES Fellow or Senior Research Scientist sponsor before applying. Without this, applications rarely succeed.
- Not eligible if:
- You were a CU Boulder graduate student/postdoc
- You were a CIRES Visiting Fellow before
- Candidates currently or previously affiliated with the University of Colorado Boulder or CIRES as graduate students or postdocs within the last 10 years are not eligible.
- Applicants must have an appointment or affiliation with an academic or research institution.
- Candidates are expected to reside at CIRES or conduct related field research for a minimum of three months.
- Priority is given to applicants from institutions outside the Boulder scientific community.
- International candidates are eligible and will receive support with visa processing.
- Other Notes
- Must begin fellowship within 10 months of acceptance
- Must present research at CIRES Rendezvous or a CIRES seminar
- Equipment purchased stays with CIRES after the fellowship
Review Criteria
- Quality of past research
- Potential contribution to environmental science
- Novel partnerships (helpful to CIRES/NOAA)
- Clear support from CIRES sponsor
Required Documents for the Application
To apply, you will need to prepare and submit:
- CV (2-page NSF format)
- Transcripts
- Cover Letter including:
- Expected start date
- Names of sponsor(s)
- How will you add value to CIRES
- Brief impactful research experience & how this fellowship will grow your skills
- Research Proposal (3 pages):
- Motivation, research question, methods, and expected outcomes
- Why CIRES is the right place for this research
- Written for a broad scientific audience
- 3 recommendation letters showing:
- Independence, creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, perseverance
- (Sponsors cannot write recommendation letters)
CIRES Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Identify a CIRES Sponsor Scientist: Contact a current CIRES fellow or senior research scientist to collaborate on your research proposal.
- Prepare Research Proposal: Develop a research plan aligned with CIRES priorities in collaboration with your sponsor.
- Gather Documentation: Collect your CV, PhD proof, transcripts, and recommendation letters.
- Submit Application: Complete the CIRES online application form before January 1, 2026, 11:59 PM MST.
- Recommendation Letters Submission: Ensure letters are submitted by January 8, 2026.
- Wait for Review: The review committee evaluates applications based on scientific merit and fit.
- Acceptance and Visa Support: Successful applicants will receive acceptance notifications and human resources assistance for visa processing if applicable.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early to secure a CIRES sponsor scientist and develop your proposal collaboratively.
- Highlight interdisciplinary research impact and how your work complements CIRES missions.
- Ensure your PhD completion date aligns with eligibility criteria.
- Provide clear, concise documentation and adhere strictly to application deadlines.
- Request recommendation letters well in advance.
- Prepare to discuss how your research will benefit from access to NOAA laboratories and CIRES facilities.
- Attend CIRES informational webinars if available to understand expectations better.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Boulder, Colorado (USD)
- Rent (shared apartment): $800 – $1,200
- Utilities (electricity, internet): $100 – $150
- Groceries: $300 – $400
- Transportation (local bus/bike): $60 – $100
- Miscellaneous (phone, leisure, supplies): $150 – $200
Total estimated monthly living expenses: $1,400 – $2,000
Why Choose This Scholarship? 5 Key Reasons
- Prestige and Recognition: CIRES fellowships are among the most competitive and respected environmental science postdoctoral opportunities in the USA.
- Strong Research Network: Collaborate with NOAA and top CIRES scientists, gaining access to high-impact projects and cutting-edge facilities.
- Financial Support: Competitive salary, research budget, and relocation stipend provide substantial backing.
- Interdisciplinary Environment: Work at the frontier of environmental sciences with experts from diverse scientific fields.
- Career Advancement: Present research at symposia and seminars, raising your scientific profile for future academic or industry roles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When is the application deadline?
A1: January 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM MST.
Q2: Can international candidates apply?
A2: Yes, international applicants are welcome, and visa support is provided.
Q3: Is family relocation covered?
A3: No, the fellowship covers relocation expenses only for the individual fellow.
Q4: What is the duration of the fellowship?
A4: Postdoctoral fellowships are two years, with sabbatical fellowships available for up to 12 months.
Q5: Can applicants currently enrolled in CU Boulder apply?
A5: No, current or recent CU Boulder graduate students or postdocs within 10 years are ineligible.
Deadlines
- Application due: January 2, 2026 (11:59 PM MST)
- Letters of recommendation accepted until: January 8, 2026
Official Link:
CIRES Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships 2026 present an incredible opportunity for aspiring environmental scientists to advance their research careers in a world-class US research environment. Early preparation, securing a dedicated sponsor scientist, and crafting a compelling research proposal are key steps to success.
Apply before January 1, 2026, to take part in this transformative fellowship experience at the University of Colorado Boulder, USA.
