Are you a driven young researcher prepared to begin your own independent scientific career? Applications are currently open for the Ernest Rutherford Fellowship 2025, which is supported by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) of the United Kingdom. The goal of this esteemed five-year fellowship is to help up-and-coming pioneers in computer science, physics, astronomy, and quantum technologies become future scientific trailblazers.
Read Also:
- 2025 FMDQ Graduate Development Programme (Q-GDP) for Nigerians
- Study in New Zealand: Wellington PhD Scholarship Program 2025 (Fully Funded)
- NDDC Local Post-Graduate (Master’s Degree) Scholarships 2025/2026 for Nigerians
When is the Application Deadline:
🗓 1 October 2025 at 4:00 PM (UK time)
Tell Me About The Award:
The Ernest Rutherford Fellowship is a prestigious five-year UK research fellowship funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). It supports exceptional early-career researchers to develop independent research careers in key science disciplines aligned with STFC’s priorities.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Proposals must fall under STFC’s scientific remit, including:
- Astronomy, Solar & Planetary Science
- Particle Physics & Astrophysics
- Nuclear Physics
- Accelerator Science
- Quantum Technologies
- Computational Science
Type:
🎓 Early-Career Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Who can Apply?
✅ Researchers who:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent research experience
- Are early in their career (no minimum postdoc years required)
- Do not hold a tenured or permanent academic post
- Have an eligible UK research institution to host them
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Quality and originality of the research proposal
- Research track record and potential
- Institutional support
- Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)
Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 Open to all nationalities(International applicants can apply for the UK Global Talent Visa and receive full visa and IHS cost support.)
Where will the Award be Taken?
🏛 At a UK-based research institution with an STFC ERF quota.
How Many Awards?
📌 Approximately 10–12 fellowships awarded each year (subject to available funding)
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Full salary support (80% funded by STFC, 20% by host institution)
- Up to £5,000 for equipment and consumables
- £2,200/year travel allowance
- £3,000 relocation support for those outside Europe
- Full coverage of visa and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Option to work full-time or part-time (minimum 50%)
How Long Will the Award Last?
📆 Up to five (5) years
How to Apply:
- Apply via the UKRI Funding Service (not Je-S)
- Confirm your host institution is registered
- Start your application on the funding portal
- Complete all required fields and documents
- Submit via your institution’s research office
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/ernest-rutherford-fellowship-2025/