Early Independence: NERC Independent Research Fellowship 2026

  • Start Date:

  • Deadline:

  • Agency:
    Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)

The Office of Grants and Research (OGR), Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), highlights the NERC Independent Research Fellowship, offered by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). This fellowship supports early career researchers in establishing independent research careers within NERC’s remit.

Programme Overview
The fellowship enables early career researchers to undertake independent research, demonstrating leadership potential and contributing to the advancement of environmental science. Projects can be full-time or part-time and last up to five years.

Key Details

  • Funder: Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)

  • Funding Type: Fellowship

  • Total Fund: £7,250,000

  • Award Range: No cap; NERC funds 80% of Full Economic Cost (FEC)

  • Submission Deadline: 16 June 2026, 4:00 PM UK time

  • Project Duration: Up to 5 years

Eligibility

  • Early career researchers based at a UK research organisation eligible for NERC funding

  • Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent research experience

  • Proposals must fall within NERC’s research remit

Funding Scope

  • Independent research projects

  • Leadership and career development for early career researchers

  • Interdisciplinary or innovative research initiatives within NERC’s remit

How to Apply
Applicants should review the full guidelines and submit their applications via:
https://www.ukri.org/councils/nerc/