Royal Society Career Development Fellowship

The Royal Society Career Development Fellowship is a highly competitive research fellowship designed to support exceptional early-career researchers who are ready to establish themselves as independent research leaders. The fellowship enables recipients to build a strong research profile within a UK host institution while contributing to the advancement of knowledge in their field.

What’s Offered

• A salary contribution to support the fellow’s position at the host institution

• Dedicated research funding to cover project costs, equipment, and consumables

• Access to the Royal Society’s professional development, mentoring, and research networks

• Long-term career support aimed at transitioning fellows into permanent academic or research roles

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to researchers of any nationality

• Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent research degree

• Intended for early-career researchers with a strong postdoctoral track record

• Applicants must secure the support of a UK-based host institution

• Selection is based on academic excellence, originality of the research proposal, and future leadership potential

Process & Structure

• Applicants submit a detailed research proposal, academic CV, and references

• Proposals undergo rigorous peer review by subject-matter experts

• Shortlisted candidates may be invited for further assessment or interview

• Successful fellows conduct their research at the host institution for the full fellowship duration

Fields of Study
The fellowship supports research across a broad range of disciplines, including:

• Natural and Physical Sciences

• Engineering and Technology

• Life Sciences

• Interdisciplinary and emerging research areas

Deadline

• Applications are typically accepted once per year, with deadlines announced in advance by the Royal Society.