Jesus College Cambridge Science Research Fellowship 2026(funded)

Overview

The Jesus College Cambridge Science Research Fellowship 2026 is an opportunity for early-career researchers to pursue independent research at one of the University of Cambridge's constituent colleges. The fellowship is open to researchers working in a range of science disciplines and is designed to support outstanding academics in the early stages of their research careers.

The fellowship is tenable for three years and is expected to begin on 1 October 2027. During this period, fellows will conduct independent research while becoming part of the academic community at Jesus College and the University of Cambridge. In addition to a competitive salary, fellows receive research support, access to college facilities, and membership of the University Pension Scheme.

About Jesus College Cambridge Science Research Fellowship

The Science Research Fellowship is intended for researchers who have recently completed a PhD or are in the final stages of their doctoral studies. It gives promising scientists the time, resources, and academic environment needed to develop an independent research profile.

Jesus College has a long tradition of supporting research across the sciences and offers fellows the opportunity to work alongside researchers at one of the world's leading universities. Fellows are expected to focus primarily on their research while contributing to the intellectual life of the College.

The fellowship is particularly suited to researchers looking to strengthen their publication record, establish new collaborations, and prepare for future academic positions. Since it is a fixed-term research fellowship, there are no routine teaching responsibilities attached to the role, allowing fellows to dedicate most of their time to research.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive a range of financial and professional benefits, including:

• A starting salary from £32,882 per year, in line with the University of Cambridge salary scale.
• A three-year research fellowship beginning on 1 October 2027.
• Free lunch or dinner at Jesus College.
• Reimbursement of eligible research expenses.
• Membership of the University Pension Scheme.
• Access to world-class research facilities and academic networks at the University of Cambridge.
• An opportunity to develop an independent research programme in a supportive academic environment.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the requirements set by Jesus College before applying.

Eligible candidates should:

• Be in the final stages of a PhD or have recently been awarded a PhD.
• Be an early-career researcher with an excellent academic record.
• Have undertaken no more than five years of full-time research after completing their degree, although exceptional cases may be considered.
• Demonstrate the ability to carry out high-quality independent research.
• Be able to take up the fellowship from 1 October 2027 if selected.

The fellowship is open to applicants from around the world. Selection is based on academic excellence and research potential rather than nationality.

Available Areas Of Study

Applications are invited from researchers working in science-related disciplines supported by the fellowship.

Eligible subject areas include:

• Biological Sciences
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Earth Sciences
• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Other relevant scientific disciplines supported by Jesus College and the University of Cambridge.

Applicants should ensure that their research aligns with the scientific disciplines specified by the College.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

• Completed online application form.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Research statement.
• Details of academic qualifications.
• Contact details for two referees, who must submit reference letters before the deadline.

Shortlisted candidates will also be required to upload:

• One sample of written work of up to 40,000 words.
• A statement of up to 500 words explaining the importance of their current research and proposed future work.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare these materials well in advance to allow enough time for referees to submit their reports.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed on several factors, including:

• Academic excellence.
• Quality and originality of previous research.
• Research achievements and publications.
• Potential to become an independent researcher.
• Strength and significance of the proposed research.
• References provided by academic referees.

Shortlisted applicants will undergo further assessment based on their submitted research materials and supporting documents.

How To Apply

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Jesus College Research Fellowship application portal.
2. Review the fellowship guidance and eligibility requirements.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Upload the required supporting documents.
5. Arrange for two referees to submit their reference letters before the deadline.
6. Submit the completed application by September 30, 2026.
7. If shortlisted, upload the requested written work and research statement within the specified timeframe.

Applications submitted after the deadline or without the required references will not be considered.