The St John’s College Research Fellowship is a prestigious award program designed for early-career academics who have recently completed or are near completion of their PhD. This fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity to pursue independent postdoctoral research within an intellectually stimulating and supportive college community.
With funding, housing support, and access to world-class academic facilities, this fellowship helps rising stars of academia accelerate their careers and make meaningful contributions to their fields. Up to four research fellowships will be awarded in 2026 across various disciplines in STEM, sciences, arts, and humanities. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here
Who Should Apply:
This fellowship welcomes early-career researchers from any university worldwide. You should apply if you fall into one of these categories:
- You have submitted your PhD after 1 October 2024
- You are on track to submit your PhD by 1 October 2026
Research Fields Welcome Applications In
- STEM subjects including all sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics
- Arts and Humanities including anthropology, architecture, modern and medieval languages, classics, education, history, history of science, history of art, theology, religion, philosophy, land economy, and philosophy
Important Eligibility Notes
- Applicants from any country can apply
- You cannot currently hold a fellowship at another Cambridge college
- If you receive other postdoctoral funding, it will be deducted from the fellowship award
- You must be able to reside within 20 miles of Cambridge during your fellowship
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What You Will Receive:
Research Funding
- A competitive annual stipend starting at £33,482 with yearly increases
- Up to £10,000 in additional grants over four years for research-related expenses
- Funding covers academic materials, travel, computer equipment, books, and conference organization
Housing and Living Support
- Choice to live in college accommodation with meals included
- Or receive a housing allowance of up to £35,760 over four years if living outside college
- Free access to one meal per day in college
- College office space if you live outside the college
Professional Development Opportunities
- Ability to teach up to six hours per week and earn additional income
- Experience working with college appointment panels
- Involvement in organizing academic lecture series
- Participation in college cultural, sporting, and social activities
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How to Apply:
Application Timeline
- Applications open: 30 July 2025
- Deadline for applications: 18 September 2025 at 2pm BST
- Reference deadline: 23 September 2025 at 2pm BST
Application Process
- Submit your application online at the official application portal
- Provide three academic references
- Include written work samples and details of your research intentions and achievements
- No interviews are conducted; decisions are based on written materials and references
- Ensure your referees submit their references by the deadline
- You can submit your application before getting all references, but incomplete applications may not be considered
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