Leverhulme Trust Announces Timeline for Early Career Fellowships 2026
The Leverhulme Trust, one of the UK’s most prestigious research funding bodies, has announced the timeline for its Early Career Fellowships (ECF) 2026, a flagship scheme designed to support outstanding early-career researchers in building an independent academic profile.
Widely regarded as a benchmark award within the UK research ecosystem, the Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship provides a structured pathway for postdoctoral researchers to undertake a substantial, original, and publishable research project at a UK university. The scheme is particularly aimed at scholars who have established a strong research record but have not yet secured a permanent academic post.
Key Dates and Duration
- Fellowship duration: 3 years (full-time)
- Host institutions: UK universities with research degree-awarding powers
- Call opens: 1 January 2026
- Application deadline: 19 February 2026 (4:00 pm UK time)
- Decisions announced: May 2026
Funding Structure
The fellowship offers a generous and phased funding model:
- Year 1: Leverhulme Trust covers 100% of salary costs (up to £56,000)
- Years 2 & 3: Leverhulme covers 50% of salary costs (up to £28,000 per year), with the remaining costs met by the host university
- Research expenses: Up to £6,000 per year
- Flexibility: Part-time fellowships are supported for reasons related to health, disability, or childcare
Who Should Apply
The scheme is ideal for:
- Early-career researchers with a clear and original research agenda
- Applicants without a permanent academic position
- Scholars seeking to transform postdoctoral research into high-impact publications
- Researchers aiming for a long-term academic career through strong institutional integration
The Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship is highly competitive and places significant emphasis on host university commitment. Prospective applicants are strongly advised to begin discussions with potential UK host departments well in advance, as institutional support plays a crucial role in the success of an application.
With its combination of salary support, research funding, and academic mentorship, the Leverhulme ECF continues to be a critical stepping stone for the next generation of academic leaders in the UK.
Read Full Details : https://www.leverhulme.ac.uk/early-career-fellowships
Author
Gagan Tripathi is an agripreneur, plant scientist, and author known for his work in agritech innovation and sustainable horticulture. He is the Co-founder and CEO of Plant Orbit, a horticulture-focused startup dedicated to making healthy, scientifically managed plants accessible to urban and institutional consumers. Born in 2000, Gagan holds a master’s degree in Agriculture Extension and Communication, blending agricultural science with entrepreneurship and community outreach. He is also the author of the bestseller “Roadmap to Your Healthy Succulents”. His work focuses on sustainable plant care, green entrepreneurship, and building impact-driven agri startups in India.
