Skip to content
Superscout

Overview

Fifty Years PhD Fellowship is a venture capital education program designed for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. The program, known as 'PhD to VC,' operates on nights and weekends, allowing participants to continue their research while learning about deep tech investing. With a focus on life sciences and technology, Fifty Years aims to support PhD founders and advanced researchers in transitioning into venture capital roles. The fellowship is backed by a network of successful founders and offers access to valuable resources and training.

Investment focus

Fifty Years' investment thesis focuses on backing PhD founders and advanced researchers who leverage technology to tackle significant global challenges. The PhD to VC program is designed to transition these talented individuals into venture capital roles, emphasizing the importance of their expertise in deep tech and life sciences.

Program details

Applicants should highlight their research experience and interest in venture capital. Strong candidates will demonstrate a passion for technology and its potential to solve global challenges.

Who it is for

Eligible candidates include current PhD students in fields such as life sciences, physics, chemistry, and materials science, as well as postdoctoral researchers and advanced researchers interested in venture capital.

Check if you are eligible

Check your eligibility for Fifty Years PhD Fellowship

Admissions and application

Applications are open to current PhD students and postdoctoral fellows with strong research backgrounds. The program is highly selective, with a 5% acceptance rate.

Benefits

  • Free education in venture capital fundamentals
  • Training in deep tech investment approaches
  • Access to portfolio companies and founder networks
  • Exposure to deal sourcing and due diligence processes
  • Networking opportunities with founder-investors
  • Pathway to venture capital internships or roles

Timeline

The program operates on a flexible schedule, with sessions held during nights and weekends to accommodate ongoing research commitments.

What came of it

The program has successfully trained multiple cohorts of PhD students, many of whom have moved into venture roles. Fifty Years has backed 72 PhD founders and 33 PhD CEOs, showcasing the impact of their investment strategy.

How to go about it

  1. Read what it asks for

    Who can apply, how people get in and whether it is open right now.

  2. Have something to show

    Programs pick people whose work they can already point to. Put yours where it can be found.

  3. Apply the way the program asks

    The program has not published how to apply. Terms and dates change. Check the official page before you act.

What it pays

The program is fully sponsored by Fifty Years, making it free for participants. There is no stipend or financial compensation provided.

Questions about this program

Who can apply for the Fifty Years PhD Fellowship?

Current PhD students and postdoctoral researchers with strong research backgrounds can apply.

Is there a cost to participate in the program?

No, the program is fully sponsored and free for participants.

About Fifty Years

Fifty Years

Venture Capital

Investing in entrepreneurs solving the world's biggest problems.

Lists that include this program

From public sources

What the sources say about Fifty Years PhD Fellowship

Similar programs

All programs
IndieBio Fellowship logoFellowship

IndieBio Fellowship

SOSV SF & NY (fka IndieBio)

Empowering biotech entrepreneurs to innovate for human and planetary health.

Location
San Francisco, California, United States
Format
In Person
Columbia Business School VC Program logoFellowship

Columbia Business School VC Program

Columbia Business School

Columbia Business School's VC Program prepares the next generation of venture capital leaders.

Location
New York, NY, United States
Format
In Person
Deadline
Sep 1, 2026

Superscout Pro

Find faster. Show up verified. Keep your deals private.

$99a year, or $12 a month
Get Pro
  • Search that narrowsInvestors, programs, accelerators, incubators and studios, by stage, sector and place.
  • A verified profileThe people you reach know you are who you say you are.
  • A private deal vaultThe startups you are watching, with your notes and your reasons. Nobody else's eyes.

Is this page right?Reviewed · How the research works

Something's off