The National Environmental Research Council (NERC) Independent Research Fellowship (IRF) Scheme is designed to develop scientific leadership among the most promising early-career environmental scientists, by giving all fellows five years’ support, which will allow them sufficient time to develop their research programmes and to gain international recognition.

As part of this scheme, NERC will expand its fellowship networking and training activities, working with host institutions, to support the development of future leaders in NERC science.

The next closing date for NERC Independent Research Fellowships is 1 October 2015.
 
Application and assessment process

In order to identify future science leaders, the assessment process will concentrate on applicants’ research potential, with track record assessed in a way that is appropriate to career stage. Applicants will be expected to:

• demonstrate their research vision and philosophy and outline ways in which their research could be developed over the five year fellowship;
• explain how they will contribute to the international research area and interact with the leading international groups in their field;
• explain how they will enable the potential economic or societal benefits of their research to be realized.

In order to demonstrate a commitment to the development of NERC IRFs, the Head of Department of the host institution will be required to demonstrate:

• the availability of structured institutional support, including infrastructure and facilities, funds to support research, and access to PhD students;
• support for personal development of the fellow, including mentoring, appropriate review, and training courses.

 
Eligibility

NERC Independent Research Fellowships (IRFs) are open to researchers of any nationality and may be held in any area of the NERC remit, but must be based at an eligible UK research organisation. Applicants may not have a permanent academic position in a university or equivalent organization.