Defra Research and Development Fellowship Programme 2026 (Paid UK Government Fellowship)

Applications are now open for the Defra Research and Development Fellowship Programme 2026. This prestigious UK Government fellowship offers scientists, researchers, engineers, and analysts from academia and industry the opportunity to work directly within government while contributing to evidence-based policymaking.

Now in its fourth year, the programme enables external experts to experience how scientific research and analytical evidence are translated into policies that address some of the most pressing environmental, agricultural, and societal challenges facing the United Kingdom. Fellows will work alongside Defra's scientists, analysts, and policy teams, helping to shape decisions that influence environmental protection, food security, biodiversity, climate resilience, animal health, sustainable farming, and rural development.

The fellowship is ideal for professionals who want to broaden their career by gaining first-hand experience at the science-policy interface while making a tangible contribution to government decision-making. Participants will build valuable networks across government and the research community, gain insight into policy development processes, and strengthen their ability to communicate scientific evidence to decision-makers.

About the Fellowship

The Defra Research and Development Fellowship Programme is designed to bridge the gap between scientific research and public policy. While many researchers generate evidence that influences society, few have the opportunity to see how that evidence is used within government. This fellowship provides that unique experience.

Throughout the fellowship, participants will be embedded within Defra teams, collaborating with policy professionals, economists, statisticians, social researchers, operational staff, and technical experts. Fellows will contribute their specialist knowledge to live government projects while learning how evidence is gathered, evaluated, and incorporated into national policy.

Projects span a wide range of subjects, including climate adaptation, environmental conservation, food systems, fisheries, biosecurity, biodiversity, water management, agricultural innovation, and emerging technologies. Fellows may also contribute to research reviews, policy evaluations, horizon scanning, data analysis, and the development of innovative solutions to complex policy challenges.

The programme is intended to foster long-term collaboration between government, academia, and industry, ensuring that public policy continues to benefit from cutting-edge scientific knowledge and analytical expertise.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• A paid fellowship within the UK Government.
• Salary based on Civil Service grade and experience.
• Fellowship lasting between six and twelve months.
• Flexible working arrangements, including part-time and job-share opportunities where applicable.
• Practical experience working at the science-policy interface.
• Opportunities to influence national policy through research and evidence.
• Access to multidisciplinary teams of scientists, analysts, and policymakers.
• Professional development through government training and networking opportunities.
• Enhanced understanding of policymaking and public sector research.
• Opportunity to build lasting professional relationships across academia, government, and industry.

Beyond financial support, the fellowship provides participants with valuable experience that can strengthen future careers in academia, government, consulting, research organizations, and international institutions.

Areas of Work

Depending on their expertise and assigned project, fellows may contribute to work involving:

• Environmental protection.
• Climate change adaptation.
• Sustainable agriculture.
• Food production and food security.
• Biodiversity conservation.
• Animal and plant health.
• Water resources.
• Fisheries and marine science.
• Rural development.
• Environmental economics.
• Scientific data analysis.
• Research evaluation.
• Emerging technologies.
• Evidence-based policymaking.

Projects are designed to address real-world challenges and support government priorities through high-quality research and analysis.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should:

• Be scientists, researchers, engineers, or analytical professionals.
• Have relevant experience in research or research and development.
• Possess postgraduate qualifications, chartered status, or equivalent professional expertise in a relevant discipline.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Have experience delivering research or technical projects.
• Be able to communicate complex scientific information clearly to non-specialist audiences.
• Be interested in applying research to inform government policy.
• Meet the nationality and right-to-work requirements specified by the UK Civil Service.

The programme is intended for professionals from academia, research institutions, and industry who wish to gain experience working within government.

Ideal Candidates

Defra is seeking applicants who can demonstrate:

• Strong scientific or analytical expertise.
• Experience conducting research that addresses practical challenges.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Interest in public policy and evidence-based decision-making.
• Adaptability and willingness to work in a fast-paced government environment.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality work with real-world impact.

Required Application Materials

Applicants should prepare:

• Completed online application form.
• Employment history.
• Academic and professional qualifications.
• A personal statement (approximately 500 words) outlining relevant experience, motivation, and suitability for the fellowship.
• Details of preferred policy area(s).
• Any additional information requested during the recruitment process.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Relevant scientific or analytical expertise.
• Quality of previous research experience.
• Ability to communicate technical evidence effectively.
• Motivation for joining the programme.
• Alignment between the applicant's expertise and Defra's policy priorities.
• Strength of the personal statement.
• Overall suitability for working in a government policy environment.

How to Apply

To apply:

1. Visit the official Defra Fellowship recruitment portal through Civil Service Careers.
2. Review the available fellowship opportunities and policy areas.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Upload or provide all required information, including your personal statement and employment history.
5. Submit your application before the deadline.