Robbert Dijkgraaf Young Talent Fund

Empowering the future of science – support young talent

Every groundbreaking discovery begins with curiosity, courage, and a fresh perspective. Young researchers are often the source of innovative ideas that have the potential to transform our society — in Amsterdam, across the Netherlands, and far beyond.

The Robbert Dijkgraaf Young Talent Fund (RDYTF) gives talented early-career researchers at the University of Amsterdam the freedom to pursue independent and curiosity driven research.

Every discovery starts with a question — and it is often a young researcher who dares to ask it.

Why this fund?

Young scientists are working today on the solutions for tomorrow — from health and sustainability to technology and social change. Yet early in their careers, funding is often limited or uncertain. The RDYTF offers them trust, support, and the resources to follow their curiosity and explore new ideas.

What we make possible

Unrestricted grants of €25,000
Independence from predefined funding priorities or external themes
Impact by giving room to ideas that advance both science and society

About Robbert Dijkgraaf

This fund is named after Prof. Dr. Robbert Dijkgraaf, internationally renowned mathematical physicist, former Dutch Minister of Education, Culture and Science, and, since 1 April, University Professor of Science and Society from an International Perspective at the University of Amsterdam. He also serves as President of the International Science Council (ISC).

After studying in the Netherlands, Dijkgraaf conducted research at Princeton University and the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS), later returning to the University of Amsterdam as Professor of Mathematical Physics. A familiar face in Dutch media (notably 'De Wereld Draait Door'), Dijkgraaf has brought science closer to the public.

His career perfectly reflects the mission of this fund: to support scientists who dare to dream, ask questions, and connect science with society.

Who can apply

The fund is open to researchers who:

are employed by the University of Amsterdam, including Amsterdam UMC and ACTA, and
obtained their PhD on or after 1 September 2020
*Extensions apply in accordance with NWO extension regulations.

Support the fund

Would you like to help shape the future of science? Your donation to the Robbert Dijkgraaf Young Talent Fund directly supports promising young scientists at the University of Amsterdam.

Whether you contribute as a private donor, corporate partner, or through another form of support — every contribution counts. Support today. Because the talent of tomorrow needs your help now.

Donate immediately or contact Juliëtte Nieuwland – via j.m.m.nieuwland@uva.nl or +31 (0)6 28311768.

More information

Ways to give
Donors are free to choose the amount they wish to contribute. Your support can take many forms, such as:

Full fellowship – €25,000

Partial grant – €12,500

Another meaningful amount of your choice
Giving from abroad

Many alumni and friends of the University of Amsterdam living outside the Netherlands remain closely connected and wish to support its mission. In several countries, tax-efficient giving to the Amsterdam University Fund is possible.

Click here for detailed information or contact us to explore the options available in your country.
Giving from the United States

Donors based in the United States can make tax-deductible contributions through 'Friends of Stichting Amsterdams Universiteitsfonds' at Myriad USA.

Please click here for more information

Robbert Dijkgraaf Young Talent Fund

Why this fund?

What we make possible

Who can apply

Support the fund

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