Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship

We offer an exciting first step for outstanding researchers to develop an independent research career based on excellent research ideas, while benefiting from a flexible working pattern due to personal circumstances.

Who we're looking for

Are you a passionate early career researcher with a clear vision to carry out your own research? Are you ready to lead an independent research group? Do you have a need for flexibility that would benefit from the additional support offered by this fellowship?

What we mean by ‘need for flexibility’

This scheme is for you if you have a current and ongoing need for flexible support due to personal circumstances, eg being a primary carer or having a clinically diagnosed health condition.

Are you eligible?

Alongside the requirement to demonstrate a need for flexibility, you can apply for this scheme if:
You are at an early stage in your postdoctoral research career, ie you have either completed your PhD or have no more than six years of actual research experience since your PhD by the closing date of the round (career breaks are taken into account)
You do not hold a permanent post (including proleptic position) in a university or not-for-profit organisation
You do not hold, or have not previously held, an equivalent fellowship that allows you to be an independent group leader
Your research is within the Royal Society's remit of natural sciences (for a full list, please see the subject groups and areas supported by the Society)
Please read our scheme notes for further information on eligibility and ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements before applying.
See our tips for applicants to this scheme.

What we offer

Eight-year fellowship with a maximum of £1,907,400 in funding
Freedom to pursue your innovative research questions and become a leader in your field
Flexibility for personal circumstances requiring part-time working or extended leave periods due to health reasons or caring responsibilities
Tailored, high-quality career development, mentoring and engagement opportunities
A supportive community of research fellows with extensive opportunities to connect, share experiences and build your networks
Our awards have made a significant impact on many researchers' careers. Read an in-depth report on our alumni in the Career Pathway Tracker
Please read our scheme notes and the Royal Society Funding Guidance for further details.

Deadline: 29 October 2026

For more information and to apply, please visit https://royalsociety.org/grants/dorothy-hodgkin-fellowship/