Funding opportunity: Early Independence: NERC Independent Research Fellowship 2026

Apply for funding to further your career through an independent research fellowship

You must:

• be based at a UK research organisation eligible for Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) funding
• meet the individual eligibility requirements
• be an early career researcher
• hold a PhD qualification or have relevant research experience combined with clear evidence of leadership potential

Your application must be within NERC’s remit.

There is no limit on the value of the grant. NERC will fund 80% of the full economic cost (FEC).

Your fellowship will last five years. You can work full time or part time (pro rata), see section ‘Who can apply’ for details.