To apply for funding for a NERC postdoctoral fellowship independent research fellowship NERC Independent Research Fellowship 2023 -24 for Ph.D. Students. The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental science in the United Kingdom. Their primary mission involves spearheading investments in environmental science, encompassing research initiatives, infrastructure development, and training programs. This commitment to advancing the field yields valuable scientific breakthroughs.
NERC allocates public funds to support cutting-edge scientific endeavors. These endeavors have a twofold purpose: to safeguard and harness the nation’s natural resources and to enhance our capacity to predict and respond to natural disasters, all while deepening our understanding of the evolving environmental landscape.
NERC Independent Research Fellowship Detail
Amount | £7,200,000 |
Institution(s) | Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) – UK |
Eligibility | All Countries |
Level of Study | PhD |
Program Period | 5 Years |
Deadline | 8 November 2023 4:00 pm UK time |
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Eligibility Criteria For NERC Independent Research Fellowship
Confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria:
To apply for this funding opportunity aimed at early career researchers pursuing independent research, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- You must be an early career researcher with the potential and ambition to work independently and develop research leadership.
- Demonstrate scientific and technical skills and competencies in line with the Independent Research Fellowship (IRF) scheme’s goals.
- If you are currently pursuing a Ph.D., you must anticipate passing your Ph.D. viva by March 2024.
- There is no specified limit on the number of years of postdoctoral or work experience.
- If you hold postdoctoral training fellowships such as the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, you are eligible to apply.
- Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin Fellows and Daphne Jackson Trust Fellows meeting eligibility criteria may also apply.
- Even if you have participated in applications as a project co-lead, you can apply as long as you still satisfy all eligibility requirements. Your proposed project must differ from previous applications.
How to apply For NERC Independent Research Fellowship
Step 1: Eligibility Check
- Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:
- You must be an early career researcher.
- Hold a Ph.D. qualification or expect to submit your thesis before the fellowship interview.
- Be affiliated with a UK research organization eligible for NERC funding.
- Your proposed research must fall within NERC’s remit.
Step 2: Research Proposal
- Develop a comprehensive research proposal that outlines your project’s objectives, significance, methodology, and expected outcomes.
- Clearly state how your research aligns with NERC’s areas of interest and contributes to environmental science.
- Emphasize the innovative aspects of your research.
Step 3: Budget Preparation
- Create a detailed budget for your fellowship, considering all research-related costs, including:
- Facilities costs.
- Cruise costs, if applicable.
- Any necessary equipment, materials, or fieldwork expenses.
Step 4: Application Submission
- Visit the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) official website or application portal to access the application form and guidelines.
- Complete the application form, providing accurate and detailed information.
- Attach your research proposal and budget as specified in the application guidelines.
- Ensure you submit your application by the specified deadline.
Step 5: Letters of Recommendation
- Request strong letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or colleagues who can attest to your research potential and qualifications.
- Provide your referees with ample time to write and submit their letters.
Step 6: Interview Preparation
- If your application is shortlisted, prepare for a fellowship interview.
- Be ready to discuss your research proposal, its significance, and your career goals.
- Highlight your potential to make meaningful contributions to environmental science.
Step 7: Monitor Application Status
- Keep a close eye on your email for notifications regarding your application’s status.
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or interviews.
Step 8: Consider Part-Time Fellowship
- NERC offers the flexibility of part-time fellowships, which will be pro rata.
- Evaluate your work-life balance and research needs to decide if a part-time fellowship is suitable for you.
Step 9: Seek Feedback
- If your application is not successful, don’t be discouraged.
- Request feedback from the review panel to improve your future applications.
- Continue seeking alternative funding opportunities to support your research.
Remember that competition for NERC fellowships can be rigorous, so ensure your application is well-prepared, addresses NERC’s priorities, and demonstrates your potential as an early career researcher. Best of luck with your fellowship application!
NERC Independent Research Fellowship FAQs
Question #1. Who is eligible for NERC independent research fellowship?
Answer: To be eligible for the NERC Independent Research Fellowship, you must meet the following criteria:
- Early Career Researcher: You should be at an early stage in your research career.
- PhD Qualification: You must hold a Ph.D. qualification or anticipate submitting your Ph.D. thesis before the fellowship interview.
- UK Research Organization: You must be affiliated with a research organization based in the United Kingdom that is eligible for NERC funding.
These eligibility criteria are essential for consideration when applying for the NERC Independent Research Fellowship. Make sure to review the latest fellowship guidelines and application requirements provided by NERC for the most up-to-date information.
Question #2. What is the NERC independent research fellowship success rate?
Answer: It’s noteworthy that the success rate for the NERC Independent Research Fellowship stands at an encouraging 20% to 30%, which bodes well for applicants with your qualifications. Leveraging your industry networks and expertise, you can craft a compelling application that demonstrates your potential to facilitate meaningful knowledge exchange between the academic and industrial sectors.
Question #3. What is NERC independent research fellowship salary?
NERC independent research fellowship salary for a Research Fellow’s amount is £5,000–£11,000 per Year.