Early Independence: NERC Independent Research Fellowship 2026
Natural Environment Research Council
What it funds
Word limit: 550 In plain English, provide a summary we can use to identify the most suitable experts to assess your application. We usually make this summary publicly available on external-facing websites, therefore do not include any confidential or sensitive information. Make it suitable for a variety of readers, for example: opinion-formers policymakers the public the wider research community Guidance for writing a summary Clearly describe your proposed work in terms of: context the challenge
Who can apply
This funding opportunity is open to early career researchers, as well as to a diversity of research and innovation staff including research technical professionals and research software engineers, wishing to carry out independent research. Applicants on an upward trajectory to pursuing working independently and developing research leadership are encouraged to apply. You should be able to demonstrate appropriate and relevant research or innovation experience. You must also be able to evidence reasonable scientific and technical skills and competencies, in line with the ambitions of the Independent Research Fellowship scheme. This could be through: completion of a PhD or other higher qualification relevant employment within a research or innovation environment You do not need to hold, or be studying for, a PhD to apply. However, if you are currently studying for a PhD, you are only eligible if you are expecting to have submitted your PhD thesis before the Independent Research Fellowship (IRF) interview with the condition of having been awarded the PhD by your fellowship project start date. There is no limit on the number of years postdoctoral or work experience. Holders of postdoctor
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