University of Bradford UK ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026

Description

The University of Bradford, in partnership with the British Council under the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), is inviting early-career researchers from Malaysia to apply for a prestigious fully funded 12-month research fellowship in the UK. The deadline to apply is 15 August 2025, with the fellowship commencing in early 2026.

This highly competitive British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship is a chance for Malaysian researchers in engineering, digital technologies, and climate science to collaborate internationally, gain access to advanced research facilities, and contribute to global impact projects aligned with the themes of sustainability, technology, health, and planetary resilience.

Degree Level

University of Bradford UK ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at University of Bradford.

Available Subjects

Research Areas for the ISPF Early Career Fellowship at University of Bradford

Successful applicants will be placed under expert mentorship in one of the following high-impact research areas:

1. Resilient Planet

1. Flood modeling and detection
2. Pollution and environmental contaminant management
3. Wastewater treatment and simulation
4. Biodiesel production using waste cooking oil
5. Analytical chemistry for pollution treatment

2. Transformative Technologies

1. Numerical modeling and AI applications in energy and oil/gas
2. Decarbonisation in pharmaceuticals, steel, cement, and power industries
3. Machine learning for industrial sustainability

3. Climate Action

1. Carbon capture and storage (CCS), BECCS
2. Climate change forecasting and flood risk modeling
3. Societal adaptation strategies to climate impacts

4. Sustainable Water Desalination

1. Simulation and modeling of water treatment processes
2. Alternative water resource identification
3. Studies on microbial and pollutant impacts in water systems

Benefits

1. £35,000 tax-free stipend for 12 months
2. Return economy airfare from Malaysia to the UK
3. Visa and insurance (NHS surcharge) costs covered
4. Research budget for project-related costs (materials, UK travel, etc.)
5. Dependent allowance if applicable
6. Full access to University of Bradford campus facilities, including labs, communal working spaces, fitness center, and health services

Eligible Nationalities

Open to applicants of Malaysia.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the ISPF Early Career Fellowship in the UK, candidates must:

1. Be a permanent resident of Malaysia
2. Be an early-career researcher (ECR): holding or near completion of a PhD, but without a permanent academic or research post
3. Hold a first degree and research experience in a relevant field (engineering, computing, sciences)
4. Be able to meet the UK visa and English language requirements
5. Not be in receipt of UK funding from any other source
6. Be committed to capacity-building and socio-economic development in Malaysia post-fellowship

Researchers without a PhD but with equivalent research experience in non-PhD disciplines

Application Procedure

Timeline and Application Process

Key Dates:

1. 15 August 2025 – Deadline for submitting applications
2. 31 October 2025 – Shortlisted candidates invited for interviews
3. 30 November 2025 – Final fellowship offers issued
4. January/February 2026 – Arrival in the UK
5. February/March 2026–2027 – Fellowship duration

How to Apply?

Interested candidates must email the following documents to ISPF-ECRF-Malaysia@bradford.ac.uk:

1. A two-page academic CV (with research experience and skills)
2. A two-page research statement (your work and fellowship goals)
3. A cover letter highlighting your fit for the fellowship

For questions or informal discussion, contact:

1. Dr Maria Katsikogianni – M.Katsikogianni@bradford.ac.uk
2. Dr Nejat Rahmanian – n.rahmanian@bradford.ac.uk
3. Dr Jaan Pu – J.H.Pu1@bradford.ac.uk

Why Choose Bradford?

Located in one of the UK’s most affordable cities, Bradford offers:

1. Lower cost of living compared to major UK cities
2. Diverse and inclusive campus environment
3. State-of-the-art engineering and technology research infrastructure
4. Family-friendly policies and support for international researchers
5. Commitment to equality, diversity, and sustainability through initiatives like Athena Swan, Race Equality Charter, and Stonewall Diversity Champions

Conclusion: Advance Your Research Career in the UK

The University of Bradford’s ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for Malaysian researchers to access world-class facilities, contribute to cutting-edge climate and technology research, and build international collaborations that drive long-term impact in their home country. Apply before 15 August 2025 and take your research journey to the global stage.