Study in UK | University of Cambridge Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026
The University of Cambridge has announced the Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Research Fellowships 2026, one of its most prestigious opportunities for early-career scientists. This program offers six research positions across the School of Biological Sciences (SBS) and the School of Physical Sciences (SPS). Applications are open for talented researchers who want to begin independent academic work at one of the world’s most respected research universities.
A Premier Research Opportunity in Cambridge
Starting on 1 October 2026, the Herchel Smith Fellowships will empower outstanding postdoctoral scientists to conduct independent, creative, and high-impact research. The program will award four fellowships within the School of Biological Sciences and two within the School of Physical Sciences.
This year, the SPS Fellowships will focus on Condensed Matter and Materials Science, offering opportunities in departments such as Physics, Materials Science and Metallurgy, and Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics (DAMTP). Fellows will collaborate with established research teams, gaining access to Cambridge’s cutting-edge labs, mentoring, and international research network.
Herchel Smith Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows receive an exceptional support package designed to help them pursue ambitious research goals with full academic freedom.
The fellowship package includes:
- A competitive salary based on the University’s Postdoctoral Research Associate scale
- Annual research funding of up to £15,000 for independent projects
- A three-year fixed-term appointment for uninterrupted research work
- Full access to Cambridge’s world-class laboratories, libraries, and interdisciplinary facilities
This opportunity allows researchers to shape their own academic path in a globally renowned environment dedicated to discovery and innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the conditions outlined in Dr. Herchel Smith’s will. Candidates should:
- Hold a PhD (or equivalent) awarded within the last three years before 1 October 2026
- Have not earned their PhD from Cambridge or Harvard University
- Qualify to live and work in the United Kingdom
This fellowship is ideal for rising scholars who aim to establish an international research career and make a lasting contribution to science.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their materials through the University of Cambridge recruitment portal. Each application should include:
- Host Support Letter – confirmation from an SBS or SPS department agreeing to host the project
- Project Summary and Motivation Statement (max. 600 words) – outlining the research idea, alignment with departmental goals, and expected impact
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 3 pages) – highlighting academic qualifications, publications, and achievements
- Two Reference Letters – submitted along with the application
Candidates should reach out early to their preferred department to confirm host support before submitting their proposal.
Important Dates
-
Applications Open: Now
- Application Deadline: 7 December 2025
- Notification of Results: Mid-March 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: 1 October 2026 (or by mutual agreement)
Applying early gives candidates more time to refine proposals and secure departmental endorsement.
Why You Should Apply
The Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Research Fellowship offers more than just financial support—it offers a launchpad for independent scientific discovery at one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Fellows gain access to Cambridge’s outstanding academic ecosystem, rich collaborative culture, and advanced research infrastructure.
For researchers ready to explore bold scientific questions, lead their own projects, and build lasting academic partnerships, this fellowship stands as a golden opportunity to grow within the heart of global research excellence.
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