INSAIT Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship 2026 and INSAIT, Sofia

The INSAIT Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity for high-achieving undergraduate students to engage in world-class research in the heart of Europe. This fully funded program, hosted by the Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT) in Sofia, Bulgaria, is designed to mirror the rigorous research models of MIT, Caltech, and ETH Zurich. Consequently, participants gain direct exposure to cutting-edge advancements in AI and Computer Science while working alongside internationally recognized faculty.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	INSAIT Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2026
Organizing Institution	Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT)
Location	Sofia, Bulgaria (On-site only)
Dates & Duration	8 to 12 weeks (Between June and August 2026)
Stipend	€1,500 per month
Financial Support	Fully Funded (Includes Housing, Travel, and Visa Assistance)
Application Deadline	March 8, 2026

Program Overview

The INSAIT SURF 2026 program aims to cultivate the next generation of researchers and innovators in STEM fields. Specifically, the fellowship allows motivated students to join ongoing research projects that address complex challenges in modern technology. By providing a collaborative environment, INSAIT ensures that students are not just observers but active contributors to high-impact science. Furthermore, the program emphasizes the transition from theoretical classroom knowledge to practical, publication-quality research.

The target audience includes undergraduate students globally who demonstrate a passion for computer science, mathematics, and engineering. INSAIT expects to host a competitive cohort of international talent, fostering a diverse academic community in Sofia.

Eligibility Criteria

To maintain the high standards of the fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Academic Status: Applicants must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program at an accredited university.
• Major: Students must be pursuing a STEM-related major, specifically in Computer Science, AI, Mathematics, Physics, or Engineering.
• Academic Excellence: A minimum GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 (or equivalent) is mandatory.
• Residency: Candidates must be able to stay in Sofia, Bulgaria, for a minimum of 8 weeks. Remote participation is strictly prohibited.
• Diversity: Applications from communities underrepresented in STEM are strongly encouraged.

Curriculum & Research Areas

Fellows are integrated into specialized research groups based on their interests and expertise. The core modules and research areas for 2026 include:

• Artificial Intelligence: Foundational Models, AI Agents, and Safe/Trustworthy AI.
• Machine Learning: Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Visual Cognition.
• Systems & Security: Quantum Computing, Cyber Security, and Distributed Systems.
• Theory & Logic: Algorithms, Automated Reasoning, and AI for Mathematics.
• Robotics: Embodied AI and Perceptual Robotics.

Resource Persons

Participants receive mentorship from a prestigious faculty body, many of whom hold joint appointments or have backgrounds at top-tier institutions like ETH Zurich. Key mentors include:

• Prof. Martin Vechev: Expertise in Programming Languages and Machine Learning.
• Prof. Luc Van Gool: Specialist in Computer Vision and David Marr Prize recipient.
• Dr. Bernhard Haeupler: Focus on Algorithm Design and Analysis.
• Dr. Kristina Toutanova: Expert in Natural Language Processing.
• Dr. Nikola Konstantinov: Focus on Machine Learning and Robustness.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the SURF 2026 program, participants will:

• Develop advanced research methodologies and technical problem-solving skills.
• Produce a high-quality research report formatted as a conference paper.
• Gain experience in public speaking through the INSAIT seminar series.
• Potentially co-author research papers for premier AI and CS conferences.
• Strengthen their academic profile for PhD applications at top-ranked global universities.

Certification & Assessment

The fellowship concludes with a formal assessment of the student’s contribution. To receive a certificate of completion, fellows must:

• Maintain Full Attendance: Physical presence in the Sofia lab for the agreed duration (8–12 weeks).
• Deliver a Project Plan: Define a clear research scope with the mentor within the first two weeks.
• Submit a Final Report: A comprehensive summary of findings structured for academic submission.
• Final Presentation: A seminar delivered to the INSAIT academic community showcasing the research results.

Registration Details

Requirement	Information
Application Portal	Online Application System
Application Start Date	February 4, 2026
Application Deadline	March 8, 2026 (23:59 EET)
Registration Fee	Free
Interview Dates	March 23 – March 30, 2026
Results Announcement	March 31, 2026

Contact Information

• Institution: INSAIT (Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology)
• Address: Sofia, Bulgaria
• Email: surf@insait.ai
• Official Website: insait.ai

Additional Information

INSAIT provides a comprehensive support package for international fellows. In addition to the monthly stipend, the institute manages and pays for student accommodation in Sofia. Travel expenses to and from Bulgaria are reimbursed, and the administrative team provides dedicated visa assistance to non-EU citizens. Consequently, students can focus entirely on their scientific pursuits without financial or logistical burdens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the INSAIT Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship 2026 program fully funded for international students?

Yes, the program is fully funded. It provides a €1,500 monthly stipend and covers the full cost of housing and travel for all selected participants.

Can I participate in the fellowship remotely?

No, remote participation is not allowed. All fellows must be physically present in Sofia, Bulgaria, for a minimum of 8 weeks to ensure a collaborative research experience.

What documents are required for the application?

Applicants must submit a current CV, an unofficial university transcript, and a one-page motivation letter outlining their research interests and prior experience.

What is the minimum GPA required to apply?

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 or an equivalent grade from their home university’s grading system.

When will the final selection results be announced?

The program team will inform selected candidates on March 31, 2026, following the interview process.