In a proof of concept (PoC), a prototype of a product or service is validated and tested for feasibility based on a concept or idea. With the PoC Fellowship programme, the CYD Campus supports young talents in the development and validation of such prototypes of innovative technologies for cyber defense.

Fellowship places are awarded in a competitive process. The fellows can carry out the project at one of the three CYD Campus locations in Zurich, Lausanne or in Thun. The CYD Campus provides the selected fellows with financial and technical resources for 12-18 months to validate their concepts with a PoC. In addition, the young talents benefit from close supervision as well as access to a network of experienced experts and decision-makers in the cyber sector.

The programme is implemented within the framework of the Cyber DDPS strategy and pursues the goal of identifying and promoting cyber talents. It also supports the measures of the National Cyber Strategy (NCS) to foster education, research and innovation in cyber security. The PoC Fellowship complements the existing CYD Fellowship programme for students at Master's level, doctoral students and postdocs. These programmes bridge the gap between academic research and practical application and offer young talents the opportunity to contribute to the cybersecurity in Switzerland.

Applications for the CYD Proof of Concept Fellowship can be submitted here.