Non-Stipendiary Research Fellowships in Sciences 2027University

Wolfson College proposes to elect up to twelve non-stipendiary Research and Junior Research Fellows in Sciences (Medical Sciences Division and MPLS), without limitation of subject, from 1 January 2027, subject to candidates being of sufficient merit.

Candidates must hold a doctorate and be engaged in research. They must either hold a full-time University of Oxford contract of employment for the duration of the Fellowship or have full-time external research funding with formal contractual support from a University of Oxford Department or Faculty. For candidates in clinical posts, a 50% University of Oxford contract alongside a 50% NHS contract is welcomed.

Junior Research Fellowships are intended for those with limited research experience who have recently completed, or are shortly about to complete, a doctorate. Normally, no more than five years should have elapsed since receipt of the doctorate.

Research Fellowships are intended for those whose careers are progressing towards becoming established scholars in their field. Normally, no more than ten years should have elapsed since receipt of the doctorate. Research Fellowships are not suitable for those taking sabbatical leave from an academic post.

Allowances to the above time limits may be made where a postdoctoral academic career has been interrupted by circumstances such as childbirth, family commitments, illness or compulsory military service. Applications are welcomed from candidates with caring responsibilities or a disability and are particularly encouraged from women and Black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts at Oxford. Applications are encouraged from candidates holding Research Council or charity fellowships (including Royal Society University Research Fellowships, EPSRC Career Fellowships and Wellcome Trust/CRUK Career Development Fellowships).

The Fellowships are non-stipendiary, and candidates must demonstrate financial independence and evidence of their means of support. Where funding has been applied for but is not yet confirmed, any offer will be conditional on proof of funding before the Fellowship begins. Successful candidates must provide a copy of their University of Oxford contract before starting.

Fellowships carry Common Table rights (currently up to £61.60 per week for meals in Hall) and other College benefits. Preference will be given to candidates who have not previously held a Fellowship at the same level at another College.

Fellowships are initially for three years. Junior Research Fellows may apply for election as Research Fellows for a further four years, while Research Fellows may apply for renewal for a final four years. Renewal is not automatic and is subject to Governing Body approval.

For information how to apply, please click on the 'Apply' button above.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 25th October 2026, 5pm

SHORTLISTING DATE: Tuesday 3rd November 2026

INTERVIEW DATE: Tuesday 17th November 2026

Non-stipendiary