University of Oxford Opens Up to 12 Research Fellowships for Scientists Seeking to Build Their Academic Careers
Overview
The University of Oxford’s Wolfson College offers up to 12 Non-Stipendiary Research and Junior Research Fellowships in Sciences, starting on 1 January 2027. These positions allow researchers to join the college while pursuing ongoing research through an Oxford department or faculty. The program aims to support scientists in building their academic careers within Oxford's collegiate research environment.
Who can apply
Applicants must hold a doctorate and be actively engaged in research throughout the fellowship duration. Candidates need either a full-time University of Oxford employment contract covering the period or full-time external research funding backed by formal contractual support from an Oxford department or faculty. Clinical candidates may present a 50 percent Oxford contract paired with a 50 percent NHS contract, and those with disabilities or caring responsibilities may work less than full time. Fellows are expected to reside in Oxford for the majority of the academic year and must demonstrate financial independence.
Junior Research Fellowships are intended for researchers with limited experience who completed their doctorate normally within the past five years by 1 January 2027. Research Fellowships target individuals progressing toward established scholarly status, typically within ten years of receiving their doctorate. Exceptions to these timeframes apply for career interruptions such as illness, family commitments, childbirth, or compulsory military service.
What you get
While the positions are non-stipendiary, fellows gain college membership, participation opportunities, and Common Table rights valued at up to £61.60 weekly for meals in Hall. Fellows can also take part in college committees, serve as Governing Body representatives, and act as College Advisors to graduate students. Initial appointments last for three years, with opportunities for subsequent renewal up to an additional four years upon Governing Body approval.
How to apply
Candidates must submit an application form and a curriculum vitae, each limited to two pages in Arial 11 font or larger, combined into a single PDF file and sent via email to the President’s Office. Covering letters are not accepted. Shortlisted candidates must arrange for two confidential references to be sent prior to interviews. Evidence of UK Right to Work is required for successful applicants.
Key dates
The application deadline is Sunday, 25 October 2026, at 5:00 pm. Shortlisting takes place on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, and interviews are scheduled for Tuesday, 17 November 2026.