UK University of Edinburgh Leverhulme Early Career Fellowships 2026-2027 (Fully Funded)

By Scholarshipalert4u / October 23, 2025

About the University of Edinburgh

Founded in 1583, the University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s most respected centers of learning and research. Located in Edinburgh, Scotland, the university is known for academic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a culture that values innovation and global impact. Within its School of Social and Political Science (SPS), scholars explore complex questions about society, politics, and human behavior — making it a perfect environment for early-career researchers ready to take the next step.

Overview of the Leverhulme Early Career Fellowships 2026

The Leverhulme Early Career Fellowships 2026-2027 offer outstanding postdoctoral researchers the chance to build independent research profiles at a leading UK institution. Funded by the Leverhulme Trust, this fully funded postdoctoral program provides time, resources, and mentorship to produce a significant piece of publishable work.

This fellowship aims to help early-career researchers transition from supervised doctoral study to independent academic positions. Fellows receive support from senior academics within SPS who act as mentors throughout the three-year program.

Degree Level, Duration, and Location

• Degree Level: Postdoctoral Fellowship
• Duration: Three years (full-time), with flexible options for health or family needs
• Location: University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
• Funding Body: Leverhulme Trust

This structure reflects the program’s commitment to academic career development and long-term sustainability in the UK research environment.

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Eligible Fields of Research

The fellowship welcomes proposals that align with the social and political sciences, including but not limited to:

• Sociology
• Social Policy
• Politics and International Relations
• Science, Technology and Innovation Studies
• Social Anthropology
• Social Work
• Centre of African Studies

These diverse areas allow scholars to collaborate across disciplines and contribute to the UK’s research mentorship programs and global academic conversations.

Fellowship Benefits and Funding Support

The Leverhulme Trust postdoc program offers a generous funding package that enables fellows to focus on research without financial constraints. Benefits include:

• Full salary coverage for the entire fellowship period
• Research and travel expenses
• Institutional contributions to support project development
• Mentorship and access to world-class research facilities
• Career workshops and professional development designed to secure permanent academic roles

In short, this is one of the best UK postdoctoral funding opportunities for researchers seeking independence and recognition.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria Explained

To apply for the Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship, applicants must:

• Hold a PhD or have submitted their thesis between 19 February 2022 and 19 February 2026
• Be within four years of their successful viva date (with exceptions for parental or health-related breaks)
• Be of any nationality, but able to reside in the UK during the fellowship
• Have a formal association with a UK university, such as a degree or employment history
• Demonstrate a strong record of academic publications and research excellence
• Not hold a permanent academic post or a comparable postdoctoral award

These requirements ensure that the fellowship supports researchers who are truly in the early stage of their academic careers.

Application Timeline and Key Dates

• Identify a Mentor: As soon as possible
• Submit documents to SPS: by 10 November 2025
• Internal Review: mid-December 2025
• Leverhulme Portal Opens: 1 January 2026
• Final Submission Deadline: 19 February 2026
• Results Announced: May 2026

These dates give applicants ample time to prepare, find a suitable mentor, and refine their research proposal before final submission.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Find a Research Mentor: Secure support from a faculty member in SPS.
2. Register Interest: Email the SPS Research Office with an expression of interest.
3. Prepare Documents: Submit your proposal, references, CV, and mentor statement.
4. Internal Review: The university panel will provide feedback and select nominees.
5. Final Submission: Complete your application through the Leverhulme Fellowship application portal.

Clear communication with your mentor and adherence to deadlines are key to success.

Selection and Review Process

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Originality and feasibility of the research project
• Academic track record
• Strength of the mentoring relationship
• Contribution to the University of Edinburgh’s research environment

The Leverhulme Trust aims to fund proposals that promise real intellectual contribution and long-term potential for impact in the social and political sciences.

Conclusion

The UK University of Edinburgh Leverhulme Early Career Fellowships 2026-2027 represent a rare opportunity for talented postdoctoral researchers to shape their independent careers in a world-class setting. With full financial support, expert mentorship, and access to an inspiring academic community, this program sets the foundation for long-term academic success.

If you’re ready to advance your research journey and make a mark in your field, this fellowship could be the perfect step forward.

Disclaimer:

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