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Early Independence: Ernest Rutherford Fellowships 2026 (Fellowship)
Funding
Up to £6,000,000
Deadline
30 September 2026
Location
England
Applications
Applications closed
Overview
The Ernest Rutherford Fellowship supports early-career researchers who want to build their own independent research programme. You must hold a doctorate or have equivalent research experience. You must be based at a UK research organisation that is eligible for STFC funding. Funding can reach up to £6,000,000 per fellowship.
Requirements to check
Who can apply:
Key requirements:
- Must hold a doctorate or demonstrate equivalent research experience
- Must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for STFC funding
This summary may not include every exclusion. Check the full eligibility rules, including who and what the funder will not support.
This fellowship is for early-career researchers who hold a doctorate or can show equivalent research experience. You must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for STFC funding. It is not for established senior researchers or businesses outside the research sector.
Regions
No published award history for UK Research and Innovation, Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). Some funders do not publish their grants data.
Full details from UK Research and Innovation, Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
Apply for this Early Independence Fellowship to support you to establish your own research niche and independence. You must hold a doctorate or evidence equivalent research experience and be based at a UK research organisation eligible for STFC funding.
You apply through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and must be based at an STFC-eligible UK research organisation. Check the STFC website for the full application process and any expression of interest requirements.
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