Sector transition: UKRI policy fellowships 2026
UKRI's Sector transition: UKRI policy fellowships 2026 supports researchers in 18-month placements within government or policy organisations to advance research-policy collaboration and evidence-based policy development.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: September 10, 2026
Funding Amounts: Up to £180,000 (Core Policy), £220,000 (What Works Innovation), or £280,000 (Natural Hazards & Resilience); UKRI funds 80% of FEC; 18-month fellowship.
Summary: 18-month fellowships for researchers to work within government or policy organisations, transferring knowledge and strengthening research-policy collaboration.
Key Information: Applicants must be based at a UKRI-eligible research organisation and meet both general and position-specific eligibility requirements.
Description
This opportunity enables researchers to spend 18 months embedded within UK government departments, arm’s length bodies, or What Works Network members, facilitating the transfer of knowledge and skills between academic and policy sectors. The programme aims to strengthen collaboration between researchers and policymakers, allowing fellows to contribute research and expert advice to pressing national and global policy challenges. Activities include research, knowledge exchange, and capacity building, while building networks and insights into effective policy collaboration. Positions span three fellowship types—Core Policy, Natural Hazards & Resilience, and What Works Innovation—each with specific host organisations and thematic focus areas.
