FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to common questions from postdoctoral candidates and supervisors, including eligibility, funding, timelines, and how the process works.
Canada’s Best is designed to provide longer-term support (up to four years) so fellows can pursue ambitious research, build a strong publication record, and develop toward independence—while also making planning and relocation more feasible for candidates moving to Montréal.
Many fellowships offer only short-term support; Canada’s Best is designed to support projects that benefit from a longer runway.
Note: The funded term is expected to be 2-4 years, depending on the applicant’s eligibility and institutional appointment rules (including McGill’s five-year postdoctoral appointment window).
The eligibility window may be extended for documented career interruptions (for example: parental leave, medical leave, caregiving responsibilities, or other systemic barriers).
If this applies to you, include a brief context statement with dates.
Yes. You may apply if your doctoral degree is expected to be awarded before your fellowship start date.
You’ll need to upload documentation showing expected completion (e.g., an official letter from your institution).
Canada’s Best is intended for new postdoctoral appointments and is not open to applicants who are already registered/appointed as a postdoc at McGill University at the time of application.
If you have already started a postdoctoral appointment at McGill before applying, you would generally not be eligible.
Only supervisors who have been approved through the PI Expression of Interest (EOI) process appear on the Supervisors and Projects list.
If someone isn’t listed, encourage them to submit an EOI so they can be considered for inclusion.
International applicants are welcome.
Work authorization is handled through standard institutional processes, and timelines can vary depending on your location and personal circumstances. Selected candidates receive guidance during onboarding.
Yes. The $30,000 research and training fund is prorated based on your funded term. For example, a two-year fellowship includes $15,000 rather than the full $30,000.
These funds are allocated to you as the fellow and support your research activities—supplies, core facility access, conference travel, and specialized training—managed in coordination with your supervising PI.
Disbursement is structured at $7,500 per year regardless of term length, but the schedule is flexible. If your research requires a larger expenditure in a given year, you can request to access a greater portion of your funds early. Disbursement arrangements are confirmed in consultation with your supervisor and the program team.
Need more information?
If you didn’t find what you needed above, contact us at ri_canadasbest@muhc.mcgill.ca with your name, your role (postdoctoral candidate or supervisor), and your question.
