April 28th, 2025 at 10:02 am
UK Royal Society Research Fellowship 2026
The Royal Society will commence applications for the University Research Fellowship (URF) on 15 July 2025. This prestigious fellowship supports exceptional early-career researchers globally, providing the necessary independence and resources to develop an autonomous research career in the UK or the Republic of Ireland. Decisions will be made by 30 June 2026, so applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents early. The URF offers substantial financial support, professional growth, career guidance, and specialized training in leadership and science communication.
Financial Support Package
Fellows chosen for the URF will be awarded a funding package totaling up to £1.87 million across eight years. Financial support encompasses:
- Assistance with the salary of the award recipient.
- Research-related expenses such as consumables, travel, and equipment expenses
- Indirect and property expenses
- Compensation contributions for research support
- Assistance for one or several fresh four-year PhD scholarships.
- Relocation Expenses, along with dependents.
Significantly, the grant cap may be exceeded to cover justifiable relocation or visa expenses. Fellows gain from flexible options that cater to individual situations, including part-time work, maternity/paternity leave, extended sick leave, and financial assistance for childcare expenses associated with research travel and conference attendance.
Moreover, URF recipients benefit from a diverse array of training, networking opportunities, science policy initiatives, and school engagement programs, which further boost their research careers.
Eligibility Requirements
This fellowship is available to early-stage researchers from around the world. Candidates must fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
- Research Experience: A range of three to eight years of postdoctoral research experience by the deadline (career interruptions not counted).
- Employment Status: Should not occupy a permanent academic position or a comparable fellowship that confers independent researcher status.
- Research Area: The study should align with the Royal Society’s focus on natural sciences, encompassing areas such as physics, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, biological sciences, and biomedical sciences, among others.
- Nationality: Individuals from all nations are encouraged to apply. Individuals requiring a visa can apply for a Global Talent Visa through the expedited procedure.
- Host Institution: Candidates need to obtain backing from a host organization in the UK or the Republic of Ireland.
Researchers from the Republic of Ireland can obtain funding from Science Foundation Ireland, provided they meet the specific eligibility criteria set by SFI. The Royal Society emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals of various backgrounds and providing support for applicants with disabilities.
How to Apply for the Royal Society Research Fellowship 2026
Deadline for Applications: 10 September 2025.
Conclusion
The University Research Fellowship (URF) offered by the Royal Society grants funding of up to £1.87 million over a period of eight years to support independent research for early-career researchers in the UK or the Republic of Ireland. This funding includes salary, research expenses, and personal costs such as childcare and relocation. Eligible candidates must possess 3 to 8 years of postdoctoral experience in the natural sciences and can submit their applications from July 15 to September 10, 2025. The fellowship aims to enhance diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from various backgrounds. Results will be disclosed by June 30, 2026.
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