Early Career Research Fellowships 2026

About the Fellowship

The Joint Application Scheme for Early Career Research Fellowships 2026 invites exceptional early-career scholars to begin their academic journey at the University of Cambridge. Hosted by Churchill College, Clare College, Murray Edwards College, Robinson College, and Trinity Hall, this fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity to pursue independent research within a world-class intellectual environment. Fellows will engage in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research across the humanities, social sciences, and sciences, contributing to global knowledge advancement. The scheme supports innovative thinkers who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to scholarly collaboration. Successful candidates will benefit from Cambridge’s vibrant research community, gaining mentorship and resources to establish a strong foundation for a long-term academic career.

Fellowship / Details

Position Title: Early Career Research Fellowship (ECRF) 2026
Host Institution: University of Cambridge – Churchill College, Clare College, Murray Edwards College, Robinson College, and Trinity Hall
Administering Body / Funding Agency: Joint Application Scheme of the participating Cambridge Colleges
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Research Field(s): All disciplines within the humanities, social sciences, and sciences
Fellowship Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship
Level: Early-career
Fellowship Duration: 3 years
Expected Start Date: 1 October 2026
Working Hours: Full-time (as per University of Cambridge norms)
Funding/Compensation: Competitive stipend according to Cambridge College regulations; includes research and professional development support
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD (completed or near completion)

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Main Subjects:

Humanities
Social Sciences
Natural Sciences
Engineering
Interdisciplinary Studies

Interdisciplinary Fields or Specialisations Eligible:

Science, technology, and policy integration
Research that bridges multiple disciplines
Projects addressing global and societal challenges
Cross-cutting themes such as:
- Environmental change and sustainability
- Digital innovation and data science
- Global health and human wellbeing
- Urban development and governance
- Cultural heritage and identity

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Open to graduates of any university worldwide.
Applicants must have recently completed or be about to complete a PhD.
Normally, no more than five years of full-time equivalent postdoctoral research experience.

Nationality or Residency Restrictions:
Open to applicants of all nationalities (subject to UK visa eligibility).

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong publication record or equivalent research outputs.
Demonstrated ability for independent and original research.
Willingness to engage with interdisciplinary academic communities.

Not Eligible:

Candidates who have held comparable postdoctoral positions elsewhere.

Fellowship / Job Benefits

Competitive stipend for the 3-year tenure
Research allowance for academic and fieldwork expenses
Access to college facilities and Cambridge’s research infrastructure
Professional development support for publications, conferences, and collaborations
Visa sponsorship and relocation guidance (as applicable)

Key Responsibilities

Conduct high-quality, independent research within the applicant’s field.
Publish in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences.
Engage with interdisciplinary networks and college activities.
Collaborate with departmental mentors and contribute to the scholarly community.

Application Process

How to Apply:

Register and submit the online application via the official Joint Application Portal.
Upload required documents and ensure referee submissions are received before the deadline.

Required Documents: