Independent research fellowships
Open to early career researchers with a PhD who want to conduct their own environmental research within an eligible host organisation.
Strong applicants will demonstrate convincing evidence of working towards this goal and a high potential to become independent research leaders in the future.
Application dates for independent research fellowships
There is one funding opportunity per year.
IRF24 closed on 3 April 2025. Sift panels for IRF24 will be held in July to September 2025, after which, successful applicants will be invited to interview in September to November 2025.
IRF25 will not be launched at this time. We are currently evaluating IRF25 as we reshape funding around the ‘Forward Look’ with decisions informed by the outcomes of Spending Review 2. We will provide updates on future opportunities as part of ongoing fellowship reviews within the UKRI collective talent program.
More about independent research fellowships
Find eligibility criteria, how to apply and details of closed, open and upcoming opportunities on the NERC fellowships funding pages.
Knowledge exchange fellowships
Fellowship scheme for NERC-funded researchers to enable the sharing of knowledge with stakeholders, partners and user communities.
Awards are available for up to three years.
Propose your own programme of work in any area across the NERC remit.
Application dates for knowledge exchange fellowships
The knowledge exchange funding opportunity scheduled for 2024 has been delayed and is paused until further notice.
More about knowledge exchange fellowships
Find eligibility criteria, how to apply and details of closed, open and upcoming opportunities on the NERC fellowships funding pages.
Daphne Jackson Trust fellowships
NERC is one of the UK Research and Innovation research councils that funds the Daphne Jackson Trust.
The Daphne Jackson Trust aims to support people who have taken a break from their career in research of at least two years for family, caring or health reasons.
For more information, visit the Daphne Jackson Trust website.
Last updated: 30 June 2025