British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026

The British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers from Brazil to advance their research career, develop global impact, and thrive in a dynamic academic environment. This fellowship is part of the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), managed by the UK Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, and delivered by the British Council. It specifically focuses on advancing research in engineering, digital technologies, and other vital sectors, under the mentorship of leading experts in these fields.

The fellowship is designed to engage researchers from Brazil in cutting-edge research at the University of Bradford in the UK, focusing on three key areas: Conservation, Traditional Communities, and Public Health. As a recipient of this prestigious fellowship, you will join an intellectually rich environment, contribute to impactful research, and develop valuable professional networks that can shape your future career. Whether your interests lie in sustainable engineering, community ecosystems, or Amazonian health systems, this fellowship provides the support and resources necessary to pursue transformative research.

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Areas of Research for the ISPF Early Career Fellowship:

The British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 focuses on three primary research areas that are crucial to global development and sustainable growth. Successful fellows will engage in pioneering research under expert supervision in the following disciplines:

Research Area 1: Conservation:

Transforming Waste into High-Performance Resources: Developing innovative methods for converting waste into valuable resources that can be used in various industries.
Sustainable Engineering Materials: Advancing recycling techniques to create sustainable engineering materials that minimize environmental impact.
Circular Economy: Researching strategies for reducing waste and promoting resource reuse through circular economic practices, aiming to drive sustainability.

Research Area 2: Traditional Communities:

Ecosystems of Traditional Communities: Investigating the intricate relationship between traditional communities and their ecosystems, and exploring how these communities maintain ecological balance.
Knowledge Systems and Empowerment: Understanding the role of traditional knowledge systems in empowering local populations, with a focus on cultural heritage and its conservation.
Climate Change and Biodiversity: Exploring conservation techniques that address the challenges posed by climate change and its effects on biodiversity, particularly in indigenous regions.
Revitalization of Indigenous Languages: Investigating ways to preserve and revitalize indigenous languages and their significance in cultural and environmental conservation.

Research Area 3: Public Health:

Amazonian Health Systems: Researching health systems in the Amazon and exploring ways to improve healthcare accessibility and quality for both indigenous and non-indigenous communities.
Tropical Diseases: Focusing on endemic tropical diseases in the Amazon region, including potential methods to control and treat these diseases.
Cultural Relevance in Healthcare: Investigating the cultural factors that influence the effectiveness of healthcare systems and their relevance to local communities.

Fellowship Benefits and Stipends:

The British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship offers several key benefits to the selected fellows, ensuring they have the resources necessary to thrive during their time in the UK:

Stipend: A tax-free stipend of £35,000 for the 12-month fellowship period.
Travel: Return economy-class travel from Brazil to the UK.
Visa and Insurance: All costs related to visa applications, insurance, and the NHS surcharge are covered.
Research Budget: A dedicated budget to cover research-related expenses such as consumables, travel within the UK, and other necessary costs.
Accommodation and Dependent Allowances: Additional allowances for accompanying dependents.
Work Environment: Office and desk space at the University of Bradford, with access to communal kitchen, meeting rooms, and other campus facilities.
Family-Friendly Policies: Policies designed to support fellows with families, ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
Campus Facilities: Access to a range of campus services, including a unique fitness centre, physiotherapy & sports rehabilitation, mental health counseling, and food outlets.

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What You Will Be Doing as an ISPF Early Career Fellow?

As a selected Early Career Fellow, you will have the opportunity to engage in high-impact, independent research in one of the designated areas, under the guidance of renowned faculty members at the University of Bradford. Here’s what the fellowship entails:

Independent Research: Conduct research in your chosen area, contributing to the global scientific community and advancing knowledge in your field.
Engagement with Stakeholders: Seek opportunities to apply your research findings by collaborating with relevant stakeholders, including local communities, organizations, and policymakers.
Publication and Dissemination: Publish your research findings in reputable academic journals and present them at leading conferences to enhance the visibility and impact of your work.
Professional Development: Participate in various activities for continuous professional growth, including guest lectures, seminars, and workshops.
Community Contribution: Cascade practical knowledge gained from your research to key stakeholders, ensuring that your work has lasting social and economic benefits.

Moreover, the fellowship offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in the University of Bradford’s academic environment, contributing to their strong research culture and community initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for the British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Geographic Eligibility: The fellowship is specifically open to Brazilian researchers.
Academic Background: Applicants must have a PhD (or be near completion) in a field related to the proposed research area, such as engineering, digital technologies, environmental science, or public health.
Residency: Applicants must be permanent residents of Brazil, specifically from the Legal Amazon region.
Research Interests: Applicants should have a proven interest or background in the research area they intend to pursue during the fellowship.
English Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet the English language proficiency requirements set by the UK Government and the British Council.
Not Currently Receiving Funding: Applicants cannot be currently receiving financial support or funding for another programme in the UK.
Capacity-Building and Socio-Economic Advancement: Applicants must be willing to demonstrate how they will contribute to capacity-building and socio-economic advancement through their research, both during and after the fellowship.
Non-profit Sector: The fellowship is open to researchers from non-profit organizations, universities, and research centers, and not for-profit organizations.

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How to Apply:

Interested candidates must send their applications by email. The following documents are required:

Academic CV (2 pages): Highlight your research experience, achievements, and relevant skills.
Research Statement (2 pages): Explain your proposed research work and aspirations for the fellowship.
Covering Letter: Outline why you are suitable for the fellowship and how it aligns with your academic goals.

Important Dates:

Application Deadline: Applications for the British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship must be submitted by 15 August 2025. Any applications received after this date will not be considered.
Shortlisting and Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews by 31 October 2025.

Conclusion:

The British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 is a transformative opportunity for Brazilian early-career researchers to advance their careers, contribute to impactful global research, and build valuable academic networks. Whether your research is in conservation, traditional communities, or public health, this fellowship offers the resources, mentorship, and support you need to thrive in your academic journey. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this prestigious program and make a lasting impact on the world. To apply and know more visit the British Council ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 official link here.