UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD
University of Oxford Opens Up to 12 Research Fellowships for ...
partial
- Up to ~12 positionsNumber of Fellowships
- Non-stipendiary (funding provided by other sources)Funding Status
- ~3-year initial tenureDuration
- Starting January 1, 2027Start Date
- Common Table rights (up to ~£61.60/week)College Benefits
- Based at Wolfson College, University of OxfordHost Institution
At a glance
partial
Funding
—
Max amount
Oct 25, 2026
Deadline
All countries
Country
University of Oxford
Provider
The Non-stipendiary Research and Junior Research Fellowships in Sciences are offered by Wolfson College at the University of Oxford. These fellowships are designed to support researchers at various stages of their postdoctoral careers who are actively engaged in research at the University of Oxford. The programme aims to integrate fellows into the vibrant academic community of Wolfson College, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement and access to college benefits. Up to 12 fellowships are available, with an initial tenure of three years, starting from January 1, 2027. Although non-stipendiary, fellows receive Common Table rights valued at up to £61.60 per week for meals, along with other college privileges. The scheme distinguishes between Junior Research Fellows, for those who recently completed their doctorate (typically within five years), and Research Fellows, for scholars further along in their careers (typically between five and ten years postdoctoral). Candidates must hold a full-time contract with the University of Oxford or secure external research funding formally supported by an Oxford department. The application deadline for the 2026/2027 cycle is October 25, 2026. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Common Table Rights — Provides meals in Hall, currently valued at up to ~GBP 61.60 per week (est.) for the Fellow's own meals.
- College Membership — Grants full membership within Wolfson College, allowing participation in its academic and social life.
- Academic Engagement — Opportunities for interdisciplinary networking and participation in college committees.
- College Advisor Role (Research Fellows only) — Research Fellows may be asked to serve as College Advisors to graduate students, offering mentorship and guidance.
- Access to College Facilities — Fellows receive access to the resources and facilities of Wolfson College, University of Oxford.
How to apply
To apply for these non-stipendiary fellowships, candidates must submit specific documents by email to the President's Office at Wolfson College. Ensure all requirements, including financial independence and employment status, are met before submission.
- Review Application Pack — Download and carefully review the official 'Non-Stipendiary Research Fellowships in Sciences 2027' application pack from the Wolfson College website (est.) to understand all requirements.
- Prepare Documents — Complete the application form (not exceeding two pages) and prepare your curriculum vitae (also not exceeding two pages), using Arial 11 font or larger.
- Combine and Submit — Combine the completed application form and CV into a single PDF file. Email this combined PDF to presidents.office@wolfson.ox.ac.uk by the deadline.
- Optional Recruitment Monitoring Form — If you wish to complete the optional Recruitment Monitoring Form, send it separately to equality@wolfson.ox.ac.uk; it does not form part of the application assessment.
- Referee Contact (for shortlisted candidates) — Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to contact two referees to submit confidential references directly to the President's Office before the interview date.
Eligibility
Academic QualificationMust hold a doctorate (PhD).
Employment/Funding StatusMust have a full-time University of Oxford contract of employment for the Fellowship duration, OR hold full-time external research funding with formal contractual support from an Oxford Department/Faculty. Clinical post holders may have a 50% Oxford contract alongside a 50% NHS contract.
Career Stage (Junior Research Fellow)Doctorate received less than five years before January 1, 2027. Exceptions for career interruptions considered.
Career Stage (Research Fellow)Doctorate received more than five years and, exceptionally, less than ten years before January 1, 2027. Not for those on sabbatical or holding Professorships. Exceptions for career interruptions considered.
ResidencyGenerally required to spend the greater part of the academic year in Oxford.
Prior FellowshipsPreference given to candidates who have not previously held a Fellowship at the same level with another College.
Applicants must demonstrate financial independence as these are non-stipendiary fellowships. Satisfactory evidence of the right to work in the United Kingdom is required for both paid and unpaid positions.
Eligible countries
All countries
Deadlines
2027 Start2026-10-25
Selection
Selection is based on a review of the application form and curriculum vitae. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, and references will be requested at this stage. Preference may be given to candidates who have not previously held a fellowship at the same level with another college. The College specifically welcomes applications from women and Black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in Oxford academic posts.
Verified sources
- University of Oxford Opens Up to 12 Research Fellowships for Scientists Seeking to Build Their Academic Careersglobalsouthopportunities.comannouncement
- Wolfson College, University of Oxford Official Website (estimated)wolfson.ox.ac.ukofficial
About the provider
Wolfson College, established in 1966, is one of the larger graduate colleges of the University of Oxford. It is known for its interdisciplinary community, fostering research and collaboration across a wide range of academic fields, including sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the University of Oxford Non-stipendiary Research Fellowship?
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It is a fellowship offered by Wolfson College, University of Oxford, for scientists at various postdoctoral career stages who are undertaking research within the university. It aims to integrate them into the college's academic community.
What does the fellowship cover?
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The fellowship is non-stipendiary, meaning it does not provide a salary. However, it offers Wolfson College membership benefits, including Common Table rights for meals, valued at up to ~£61.60 per week (est.), and access to college life and facilities.
What is the value of the award?
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There is no monetary stipend or salary provided. The award value consists of non-financial benefits such as college membership, interdisciplinary networking opportunities, and Common Table rights, which cover the cost of some meals.
Who is eligible for these fellowships?
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Eligible candidates must hold a doctorate and have a full-time employment contract with the University of Oxford or secure full-time external research funding formally supported by an Oxford department or faculty.
Which countries are eligible?
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These fellowships are open to eligible researchers from all countries, provided they meet the academic and employment/funding criteria, and satisfy UK Right to Work requirements.
What study levels are supported by this fellowship?
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These fellowships are specifically for postdoctoral researchers. There are two categories: Junior Research Fellowships for early-career postdoctoral scientists and Research Fellowships for more established postdoctoral scholars.
What is the application deadline for the upcoming cycle?
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The application deadline for the 2026/2027 cycle is Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 5:00 pm (GMT, est.).
How do I apply for the fellowship?
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Applicants must submit a completed application form and a curriculum vitae, combined into a single PDF file, via email to presidents.office@wolfson.ox.ac.uk. Cover letters are not considered.
What documents are required for the application?
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The primary required documents are a completed application form and a CV, each not exceeding two pages. Referees will only be contacted for shortlisted candidates, and proof of funding/employment is needed upon offer.
How are recipients selected?
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Candidates are selected based on their submitted application materials, followed by a shortlisting process. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview, and confidential references will be requested at that stage. Satisfactory research progress and financial support are key for renewal.
What is the duration of the fellowship and is it renewable?
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Both Junior Research and Research Fellowships are initially for three years. They may be renewed for a further four years, subject to approval, satisfactory research progress, continued financial support, and good standing within the College.
Where can I confirm the details of this scholarship?
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Applicants should download and carefully review the official 'Non-Stipendiary Research Fellowships in Sciences 2027' application pack from Wolfson College, University of Oxford's official website for the most current and accurate information.