The Royal Society University Research Fellowship (URF) is a prestigious opportunity for early-career scientists to build an independent research career in the UK or Republic of Ireland. This fellowship supports outstanding researchers with the potential to become leaders in their field, offering funding, flexibility, and professional development.
The fellowship lasts 8 years, with years 6–8 subject to a mid-fellowship review at the start of year 4. It provides up to £1.87 million in funding to cover salary, research expenses, equipment, and relocation costs. You can check out more interesting fellowships here.
Eligibility Criteria
- Have 3–8 years of research experience since the award of your PhD (excluding career breaks like parental leave or illness).
- You must not hold a permanent academic position (including proleptic appointments) at a university or not-for-profit research organization.
- You must not have held an equivalent fellowship that supports building an independent research group.
- Applicants can be of any nationality.
- You must secure support from a UK or Republic of Ireland university or research institution willing to host your fellowship.
Note: Applicants from the Republic of Ireland must follow specific eligibility criteria set by Science Foundation Ireland.
Research Field
- Your research must fall within the Royal Society’s natural sciences remit, including but not limited to:
- Biological and biomedical sciences
- Chemistry
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physics
Also check: British Academy Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026-27
What Does the Fellowship Offer?
The URF provides comprehensive support to help you succeed as a research leader:
- Funding: Up to £1.87 million over 8 years, covering:
- 80% of your salary (the host institution typically covers the remaining 20%).
- Research expenses, equipment, and consumables.
- Relocation and visa costs for you and your dependents (if justified).
- Flexibility: No annual caps on salary or research expenses, allowing you to allocate funds based on your project needs.
- Career Development: Access to mentoring, networking, leadership training, and science communication programs.
- Long-Term Support: 8 years of funding to pursue innovative research and establish independence.
Check also: VIP3 Postdoctoral Fellowship Program
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the URF:
- Check Eligibility: Review the requirements on the Royal Society website to confirm you qualify.
- Find a Host Institution: Contact a UK or Republic of Ireland institution and secure a sponsor (e.g., an academic staff member) to support your application.
- Prepare Your Application:
- Submit a research proposal, including a plan for research support.
- Provide a CV, publication list, and contact details for referees.
- Submit via Flexi-Grant: Applications must be submitted through the Royal Society’s Flexi-Grant system by 3:00 PM BST, 10 September 2025.
- Interview: Shortlisted applicants will attend an in-person interview at the Royal Society to discuss the importance and validity of their research.
Check more details on application preparation here.
Check also: Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship 2026
Key Dates:
- Application deadline: 10 September 2025, 3:00 PM BST
- Decisions announced: 30 June 2026
