International Newton Fellowship Scheme: Postdoctoral research and seed grants

The Newton International Fellowship scheme will select the very best early stage post-doctoral researchers from all over the world, and offer support for two years at UK research institutions. They provide grants of £24,000 per annum to cover subsistence and up to £8,000 per annum to cover research expenses, plus a one-off relocation allowance of up to £2,000.

Key Features: The long-term aim of the scheme is to build a global pool of research leaders and encourage long-term international collaboration with the UK. The Newton International Fellowships scheme is run by The British Academy and the Royal Society.

  • The Fellowships cover the broad range of physical, natural and social sciences and the humanities.
  • In addition, Newton Fellows may be eligible for follow-up funding of up to £6,000 per annum for up to 10 years following the completion of the Fellowship.
  • The Newton International Fellowships Scheme covers researchers in the following disciplines: physical sciences, natural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities.
  • The scheme also covers clinical and patient orientated research, for applicants from China and India during the current round.

The next round for applications to the Newton International Fellowship scheme is now open.

Requirements: Eligibility Applicants must hold a PhD, or expect to obtain their PhD by the time funding starts, and should have no more than 7 years of active full time postdoctoral experience at the time of application (discounting career breaks, but including teaching experience and/or time spent in industry). Additionally, applicants should not hold UK citizenship and should be working outside of the UK at the point of application. Applicants must have a clearly defined and mutually-beneficial research proposal agreed with a UK host researcher. For further details please refer to the ‘Eligibility’ criteria below. Duration of Fellowship Fellowships provide the opportunity for the best early stage postdoctoral researchers from all over the world to work at UK research institutions for a period of two years, on a full time basis.

Application Procedure: Applications are made online through e-GAP2, an electronic application system run by the Royal Society. You must have a strong research project and a UK Sponsor.

The scheme notes for the 2016 round can be found here. 

You should also be aware that an application is made jointly by you and your proposed UK Sponsor. Please note that no help in finding a UK Sponsor will be provided by either of the two implementing academies. You need to have agreed a research project with your proposed UK Sponsor before you apply.

You will be asked to identify two independent referees who are familiar with your area of research. You should send them a copy of your application; please make sure that they are aware of the main features of your proposal.

You should send them the Guidance for Statement Providers and Referees document found in the Scheme Notes, which tell them how to provide reference statements on e-GAP2.

You will also be asked to provide details of individuals who will be asked to submit statements of support via e-GAP2 outlining your suitability for the Fellowship and explaining how it will benefit your research career.

The scheme is very competitive and as such it is important to make the best case for your application. You should:

  • Include all relevant information and supporting arguments in the application. The application stands alone and there is no opportunity for reconsideration on further evidence after assessments have been made.
  • Observe the assessment criteria to ensure you are providing the necessary information to show how your application meets these.
  • Present your application clearly; evidence of good planning, financial responsibility and measurable outcomes can be as important as excellent research.
  • Save information entered on e-GAP2 as you proceed: you may be automatically logged out after a long period of inactivity and any unsaved information will be lost.
  • Print a copy of your application and check that no information is omitted before submitting: once submitted you will not be able to edit your application without asking your approver to return it to you.

Specific enquiries on e-GAP2 should be addressed to: e-gap@royalsociety.org

Contact details: 

General enquiries on the Newton International Fellowships:info@newtonfellowships.org

Specific enquiries on the electronic grant application system (e-Gap2): e-gap@royalsociety.org

Enquiries about this website, including accessibility issues: webmaster@newtonfellowships.org

Deadline: 9th March 2018* *applicants are advised to submit their application for approval to the UK host organisation approver at least 5 working days before the round deadline i.e. by 2 nd March 2018

Apply now: Applications for all Newton International Fellowships should be made online through the Royal Society’s Electronic Grant Application and Processing system.

Further Link: click here