Note: This fellowship is now expired. The information below is for reference only.
The ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 UK was a prestigious research opportunity offered by the University of Bradford in collaboration with the British Council. Funded through the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), the program targeted Malaysian early-career researchers seeking international research exposure in science, sustainability, and technology.
The fellowship provided partial funding, including a £35,000 tax-free stipend, airfare, visa coverage, and access to University resources. Applications were accepted until August 15, 2025, with the fellowship scheduled to commence in early 2026.
Why Apply for the ISPF Early Career Fellowship?
The fellowship offered participants:
Access to world-class research facilities and laboratories
Expert mentorship from leading academics
Opportunities for global networking in science and sustainability
Hands-on experience with high-impact research projects addressing social and environmental challenges
Fellows contributed to areas ranging from climate risk modeling to water desalination technologies, enhancing Malaysia’s scientific expertise while tackling global issues.
Fellowship Details and Research Areas
The 12-month fellowship focused on interdisciplinary research aligned with global scientific priorities. Selected fellows were matched with expert mentors and given full access to the University of Bradford’s advanced labs, innovation centers, and collaborative hubs.
Research areas included:
1. Resilient Planet
Flood detection and simulation
Environmental pollutant management
Wastewater treatment technologies
Biodiesel production using waste materials
Analytical chemistry for environmental cleanup
2. Transformative Technologies
AI and numerical modeling in energy sectors
Industrial decarbonization in pharmaceuticals and heavy industries
Machine learning applications in sustainability
3. Climate Action
Carbon capture and BECCS systems
Climate forecasting tools
Community resilience strategies
4. Sustainable Water Desalination
Water treatment modeling
Microbial and pollutant studies
Exploration of alternative water sources
Fellowship Benefits
The fellowship provided comprehensive support to enable a productive research year in the UK:
£35,000 tax-free stipend for one year
Return airfare from Malaysia to the UK
Visa application fees and NHS surcharge covered
Research budget for materials, UK-based travel, and project costs
Dependent allowance (if applicable)
Full access to campus labs, gyms, and health services
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants needed to meet the following requirements:
Malaysian permanent residency
Early-career researcher, with or near PhD completion
No permanent academic or research position
Relevant academic qualifications and research experience
Ability to meet UK visa and language requirements
No concurrent UK funding
Commitment to contribute to Malaysia’s socio-economic development post-fellowship
Note: Candidates without a PhD but with equivalent technical research experience were also eligible.
Application Process
Applicants were required to email the following documents to [email protected]:
Two-page CV highlighting research experience
Two-page research statement (project background, methods, goals)
Cover letter explaining motivation and suitability
Key Dates:
Application deadline: August 15, 2025
Interviews: October 31, 2025
Fellowship offers: November 30, 2025
Fellowship duration: February 2026 – March 2027
Contact for Queries:
Dr. Maria Katsikogianni – [email protected]
Dr. Nejat Rahmanian – [email protected]
Dr. Jaan Pu – [email protected]
Why Choose the University of Bradford?
11,665 students, with 22–27% international from 110+ countries
Global rankings: QS #531, THE #501–600, US News #1,228
Strong research expertise in sustainability, technology, and equality
Lower cost of living compared to major UK cities
Family-friendly policies and inclusive community
Commitments to diversity: Athena Swan, Stonewall, Race Equality Charter
FAQs
Q1: Who was eligible for this fellowship?
A: Malaysian early-career researchers with a PhD or equivalent experience, not holding permanent positions.
Q2: What was the fellowship duration?
A: 12 months, from February 2026 to March 2027.
Q3: What funding and support were provided?
A: £35,000 tax-free stipend, airfare, visa costs, research budget, and campus access.
Q4: What research areas were included?
A: Climate action, sustainability, transformative technologies, resilient planet, and water desalination.