Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowships 2026

The Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowships support researchers at the early stages of their academic careers to undertake a significant piece of publishable research.

These fellowships are hosted at UK universities with degree-awarding powers and are designed to help fellows transition into permanent academic roles.

About the Fellowship

This programme is aimed at researchers who already have a strong research track record but have not yet held a full-time permanent academic position.

Fellowships are held at UK institutions and provide both financial and institutional support to develop independent research careers.

Funding and Value

The funding follows a joint support model:

Year 1:
The Trust covers 100% of salary costs up to £56,000

Years 2 and 3:
The Trust covers 50% of salary costs up to £28,000 per year
The host university covers the remaining balance

Additional support includes:
Up to £6,000 per year for research expenses

Duration

The fellowship lasts 3 years (full-time)

Part-time options are available for health-related reasons, disability, or childcare commitments

Eligibility

Applicants must:

Be early career researchers with a strong research record
Not hold a full-time permanent academic position
Secure a host institution at a UK university

What the Fellowship Offers

Full salary support (Year 1) and partial support (Years 2–3)
Research funding to support project development
Opportunity to build an independent academic profile
Pathway to a permanent academic position

Why This Opportunity Matters

The Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship is one of the UK’s most respected research fellowships. It provides the time, funding, and institutional support needed to develop high-quality research and advance an academic career.

Key Information

Duration: 3 years
Funding: Salary + up to £6,000/year research expenses
Location: UK universities

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the Leverhulme Trust Grants Management System. Applicants must coordinate with a host university before applying.

Learn more

For more Fellowship Opportunities , Visit OFY here.