The Young CAS Fellow programme was first held in 2019-20, and is created in partnership with the Young Academy of Norway.

This research funding opportunity is supposed to help researcher grow their professional networks and create a foundation for collaboration at a critical point during their careers. The programme extends CAS’ reach to researchers not eligible to apply to lead a CAS project.

A successful Young CAS Fellow application describes a project that is curiosity-driven, challenges established truths, and has the potential to extend the frontiers of knowledge on the relevant field. It is not possible to conduct lab work at CAS.

Two Young CAS Fellow projects in 2020/21

As a Young CAS Fellow, you will receive a grant of up to NOK 200,000 in one year. The grant intends to fund the development of research projects, network building, and three gatherings during the 2020/21 academic year. 

The first gathering lasts for five days, and the succeeding two for three to five days.

The first gathering will be in August 2020 at CAS’ premises in the historic building of the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. Seven offices and a conference room in CAS’ loft will be available for the Young CAS Fellows. The project leaders will also receive some administrative and technical assistance.

The second may be hosted at the fellow’s home institution or a location and at a time of the fellow’s choosing. For the third and final gathering, in late spring 2021, the fellows will return to CAS and the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters.

The Young Academy of Norway will contribute to the discussions, and advice on communication and strategy for further development of the projects.

Who can apply?

Applicants must have completed a Ph.D. and be employed in a researcher position below the rank of full professor at one of CAS’ partner institutions in Norway during the 2020/21 academic year. A researcher position is an academic position that entails research and/or tutoring on university and college level. The applicant does not have to be in a permanent position.  

Project leadership experience is preferred. Applicants must be below the age of 40 (not counting valid medical or personal leave).

For the 2020/21 academic year, CAS will fund two Young CAS Fellows.

How to apply

The application must include:

  • a description (up to 3 pages) of the project, including plans for the three gatherings. The proposal should clearly explain how the three gatherings will benefit the applicant's professional development
  • a preliminary list of 3-5 participants. Additional participants may be added at a later date
  • a draft budget. The grant is supposed to cover travel, accommodation, and food expenses. The grant does not cover buyout
  • a brief ethical self-assessment (no more than half a page) certifying that the applicant is familiar with the ethical guidelines in his or her field 
  • a full CV, including publications (1-2 pages)
  • a letter of support from the Head of your section

If the project requires pre-approval from the Norwegian Data Protection Authority, the Regional Committees for Medical and Health Research Ethics, or a similar body, this must be secured by August 2019.

To apply, please send an email titled "Young CAS Fellow application" to Karoline Kvellestad Isaksen at k.k.isaksen@cas.oslo.no

Deadline: October 15, 2019

The selection process

A selection committee made up of representatives from CAS, the CAS Board of Directors, and the Young Academy of Norway, presents a short list for the CAS Board of Directors, who lastly select the two Young CAS Fellow projects in February 2020.

The quality of the project, the applicant’s merits and experiences will be 

If you have any questions about the application process, please do not hesitate to contact adviser Karoline Kvellestad Isaksen.