Application process
Research Fellowships must be held at one of the following eligible institutions that can show it is capable of fully supporting an engineering-focused research project and researcher:
- a UK higher education institution/university or
- a UK research organisation that is eligible to receive UKRI funding. (A list of eligible research organisations is included in the applicant guidance notes)
In addition, the host institution must agree to provide the Research Fellow all the support normal for a permanent employee. Research Fellowships cannot be jointly hosted by multiple institutions.
There is a limit on the number of applications each host institution can submit. Host institutions are likely to have an internal selection process that applicants must find out in advance.
There are no nationality and age restrictions for applicants. The host institution is responsible for securing all necessary work permits and related costs for the Research Fellows.
Please read the Applicant Guidance Notes 2024/25 for full details of the research fellowship schemes and how to apply.
Applications must be submitted via the Academy's Grants Management System (GMS).
Selection process
The scheme has a three-stage selection process.
Stage one: general review
Each eligible application will be assessed by three non-expert reviewers (Academy Fellows or former Research Fellows). The selection of applications proceeding to next stage assessment is made by a sift panel (consisting of Academy Fellows).
Stage two: expert review
Each selected application will be assessed by three expert reviewers, who have expertise in the proposed research. This will be followed by a shortlist panel to select the most competitive applications to proceed to stage three: interviews.
Stage three: interviews
Interviews will take place online or at the Academy in London. Each interview will be conducted by a panel of four Academy Fellows and will be 30 minutes long. This includes a five-minute presentation from the candidate. Following the interviews, the panel will rank the applications and select the top ranked candidates for awards.
The assessment criteria include the following subjects:
- Candidate
- Research quality and vision
- Research environment
- Resource and management
- Beneficiaries and impact
Please read the Reviewer Guidance for full details of the selection process.
Post-award guidance
The Research Fellowship contract will be signed between the host institution and the Academy. The Research Fellowship grant will be paid directly to the host institution as outlined in the contract.
Research Fellows will be employed by the host institution and are required to devote all their working time to the Research Fellowship programme of work. The Research Fellowship must be the Research Fellow’s only source of employment.
The Academy’s will work with each awarded Research Fellow to identify an Academy Fellow to be their mentor. The mentor will support and provide advice on the Research Fellow’s research and career development during the Research Fellowship.
Research Fellows are required to submit a progress and financial summary report to the Academy each year. The Research Fellow, Academy representative and mentor will meet annually to discuss the report, identify progress being made, and suggest future plans.
Please read the Reporting and Review Meetings Guidance for full details of requirements.