Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in UK | Fully Funded

Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Research Fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers to advance their academic journey at the prestigious University of Cambridge. The fellowship invites outstanding applicants to apply for up to four positions in the School of Biological Sciences (SBS) and two in the School of the Physical Sciences (SPS), beginning on 1 October 2026 (or by mutual agreement).

In this round, the SPS Fellowships will emphasize Condensed Matter and Materials research, with placements available across the Departments of Physics, Materials Science & Metallurgy, and Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics (DAMTP). Fellows will engage in full-time independent research within Cambridge’s world-class environment, collaborating closely with leading academic groups. Each fellowship spans up to three years, providing a unique platform to pursue innovative and impactful scientific work.

Benefits of Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

• Salary on the University’s Postdoctoral Research Associate scale (£37,694-£46,049)
• An annual research allowance of up to 15,000 pound sterling
• A fixed-term contract of up to three years

Eligibility for the Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

In accordance with Dr Herchel Smith’s will, applicants must:

• To be eligible, applicants should normally have received their PhD (or equivalent qualification) within three years prior to the application deadline – specifically, on or after 30 November 2022.
• Not have received their PhD from Cambridge or Harvard Universities

Required Documents

Applications must be submitted via the University’s recruitment system and include the following:

• Host Support Letter
• A letter from an SPS or SBS Department confirming its willingness to host and support the proposed research project. If applying jointly across Departments, a letter must be provided by each. Candidates are advised to identify and contact a suitable faculty host well in advance to ensure their proposal aligns with departmental priorities and to allow sufficient time for a support letter to be prepared.
• Project Summary and Motivation Statement (max. 6000 words)
• A combined document outlining the proposed research, including project objectives, the SPS/SBS Department and Research Group you wish to join, and your motivation for applying. The statement should also explain what you hope to achieve through collaboration with the chosen Department/Group.
• Curriculum Vitae (max. 3 pages)
• A CV detailing academic qualifications, career to date, and a full list of publications. Please include hyperlinks to your three most significant publications.
• References (two required)
• Two reference letters must be included with the application. Applicants should ensure referees are available and contactable throughout the selection process.

How to Apply for Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Research Fellowship?

• Apply online via the official website
• Register your account and complete the application form with personal and academic details
• Provide research experience, publications, and references as required
• Clearly describe your proposed research project and objectives
• Review and submit the application before the deadline
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Research Fellowship offers up to three years of independent research at Cambridge, with competitive salary, £15,000 annual research allowance, and collaboration opportunities. Eligibility excludes Cambridge and Harvard PhDs, requiring departmental support.