Independent research fellowships
Overview
Independent fellowships are aimed at researchers who are ready to start up their own research programme.
Typically, successful fellows have finished their PhD, published several lead-author papers and a clear idea of their research programme.
Benefits of independent fellowships include; improved leadership skills, more freedom and time to pursue your research and integrated support.
What we offer
Advice on preparing your application
Support on suitable funding sources, effective CV content, the application process, costing the grant and core research facilities and peer review and mock interviews from experienced senior staff.
Lab and office space
New independent fellows are given suitable lab and office space.
Support
Access to PhD studentship programmes, dependent on nature of the Fellowship, and communal support staff to support your career development.
Mentoring and guidance
A senior academic will be your mentor from day one. They provide one-to-one advice and guidance on grant writing and peer review to ensure the best opportunity for success, and act as an independent advisor to your career progression. You will also become a full member of a Faculty research group, providing you with access to wider support and guidance.
New investigator network
As a Fellow in the Faculty, you will join the large network of new investigators who meet on a regular basis to share their experience and discuss best practice.
Career development
You will have access to a suite of University training schemes and the opportunity to develop your teaching skills.
Facilities
In-house cutting-edge facilities and equipment to support world-class research.
Start up fund
Negotiable fund for use to kick start your research programme, dependent on nature of the Fellowship.
Research Fellowships at Leeds
We represent one of the largest groupings of biological scientists in the UK, with an internationally renowned track record in research.
By joining as a research fellow in the Faculty of Biological Sciences, you will have access to:
- a range of interdisciplinary research groups across Medicine and Health, Engineering and Physical Sciences and Earth and Environment.
- A supportive and vibrant research culture
Next steps
To become an Independent Fellow, you will need to apply for funding with support from a senior academic. Discover potential Fellowship schemes on our website.
To discuss a potential Fellowship application, please contact:
Professor Andrew Macdonald, Pro Dean for Research and Innovation, Anisha O’Hagan, Research and Innovation Development Officer (A.OHagan@leeds.ac.uk) or your Head of School:
Professor Rich Callaghan, School of Biomedical Sciences
Dr Darren Tomlinson, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology
Professor Stefan Kepinski, School of Biology
Resources
More resources about Fellowships and Grants can be found on the university website.
The Fellowship Application Repository includes some examples of previous successful applications. Please note, this resource can only be accessed if you have a University of Leeds account. If you’re not based at Leeds, please email Dr Michael Colman at m.a.colman@leeds.ac.uk.