Call for Applications: University of Oxford Opens Up to 12 Research Fellowships for Scientists Seeking to Build Their Academic Careers

Overview

Wolfson College at the University of Oxford is inviting applications for up to 12 Non-stipendiary Research and Junior Research Fellowships in Sciences for 2027. They cover subjects within the Medical Sciences Division and the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Division and start from 1 January 2027 for an initial three years. The College elects both Junior Research Fellows and Research Fellows depending on career stage. The fellowships are meant for early-career researchers and not for academics on sabbatical or those who already hold professorships.

Who can apply

All candidates must hold a doctorate and be actively engaged in research. They must also have either a full-time University of Oxford employment contract for the whole fellowship, or full-time external research funding formally supported by an Oxford Department or Faculty. Clinical candidates may combine a 50 percent Oxford contract with a 50 percent NHS contract, and people with caring responsibilities or disabilities who work less than full time are encouraged to apply. Fellows generally spend most of the academic year in Oxford.

Junior Research Fellowships suit those who recently completed or are about to complete a doctorate, in most cases less than five years before 1 January 2027. Research Fellowships generally suit those with a doctorate more than five years and, except in exceptional circumstances, less than ten years before that date. Career interruptions such as childbirth, family commitments, illness or compulsory military service can be explained as grounds for an exception. Holders of Research Council or charity fellowships are encouraged to apply.

What you get

The fellowships carry no salary or stipend. Fellows receive Common Table rights, currently up to 61.60 pounds a week for meals in Hall, and other College benefits. They may sit on nearly all College committees and be elected as representative members of the Governing Body, and Research Fellows may be asked to advise graduate students. Junior Research Fellows may apply for renewal or election as Research Fellows for a further four years, and Research Fellows may renew for a final four years.

Requirements

Applicants must show how their research and employment will be funded. If funding is pending, any offer is conditional on proof of funding before the start, and successful candidates must give the College a copy of their Oxford contract.

Key dates

The application deadline is 25 October 2026 at 5:00 pm. Shortlisting is on 3 November 2026 and interviews are on 17 November 2026.