EIT unveils the second cohort of Undergraduate Ellison Scholars

Following a global search for talent, the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) today announces the 2026 cohort of incoming Ellison Scholars. The Institute’s second cohort of undergraduates comprises 20 exceptional students from 15 countries worldwide, who will receive full funding to study at the University of Oxford as part of EIT’s inaugural scholarship programme.  

In addition to selection by EIT for full funding, all incoming Ellison Scholars have received offers of places to study at the University of Oxford through its independent admissions process. Subject to meeting the conditions of their offers, the 20 offer holders will begin their studies in October 2026.  

Connecting the world’s brightest minds to the world’s biggest problems

EIT’s mission is to discover, develop, and deploy science and technology to solve some of humanity’s most enduring challenges within the areas of health, food security and climate change and AI. The Ellison Scholars programme plays a crucial role in this by connecting the world’s brightest young minds to the world’s biggest problems, nurturing the next generation of global innovators and leaders who will work together with EIT to generate effective solutions.  

Ellison Scholars receive a comprehensive package from EIT to support them to thrive on an elevated trajectory while they study at the University. The students will receive comprehensive funding for their studies, including full tuition and living expenses. Beyond the world-leading academic experience they will benefit from as Oxford students, they will engage in innovative and world-benefitting projects during paid internships at EIT, as well as a year-round programme of EIT events to support their growth as leaders and innovators.  

Meet the incoming Ellison Scholars

The 2026 undergraduate cohort is comprised of an exceptional group of young people distinguished by their academic excellence and commitment to solving global challenges. Among them are national and international Olympiad medallists in mathematics, physics, informatics, economics, astronomy, earth science and linguistics, as well as students who have ranked at the very top of their countries in examinations and national competitions. Their research and innovation portfolios span a variety of areas from clean energy, climate science and carbon capture to AI governance, machine learning, robotics, financial systems, and advanced mathematical modelling, often already resulting in published papers, award-winning prototypes and real world applications. Many have founded initiatives, led national teams, coached younger learners or built community projects that put their skills into practice, reflecting a shared drive to translate expertise into societal impact. Collectively, they bring curiosity and a deep sense of purpose to all that they do.