ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 UK – University of Bradford Research Program for Malaysian Scholars
The ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 UK is a unique research opportunity offered by the University of Bradford, in collaboration with the British Council. It is funded under the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF). The program is designed specifically for Malaysian early-career researchers who plans to to explore global research ecosystems in science and sustainability.
The fellowship supports partial funding which also includes a £35,000 tax-free stipend, airfare, visa costs, and access to campus resources. Applications need to be submit by August 15, 2025, and the fellowship is expected to begins in early 2026.
Why Apply for the ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 UK?
This fellowship opportunity also provides world-class research facilities, also expert mentorship, and global academic networking. Fellows will gain the exposure of latest technologies while contributing to high-impact projects with social and environmental significance.
Fellows have to work on developing water desalination methods to modeling climate change risks, tackle pressing global challenges while strengthening Malaysia’s scientific community.
Fellowship Details and Research Areas
The 12-month fellowship focuses on key interdisciplinary themes. Selected applicants will be matched with expert mentors and gain full access to the University of Bradford’s advanced laboratories, innovation centers, and collaborative hubs.
Research will fall into one of the following four high-impact areas:
Resilient Planet
Flood detection and simulation
Environmental pollutant management
Wastewater treatment technologies
Biodiesel production using waste materials
Analytical chemistry for environmental cleanup
Transformative Technologies
AI and numerical modeling in energy sectors
Industrial decarbonisation in pharmaceuticals and heavy industries
Machine learning applications in sustainability
Climate Action
Carbon capture and BECCS systems
Climate forecasting tools
Community resilience strategies
Sustainable Water Desalination
Water treatment modeling
Microbial and pollutant studies
Exploration of alternative water sources
These identified fields are align with global scientific priorities, offering the exposure for real-world application potential.
Benefits of the Fellowship
The ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 focus to provide significant support for successful candidates, allow them a comfortable and productive research year in the UK. Major benefits include:
£35,000 tax-free stipend for one year
Return economy airfare from Malaysia to the UK
Visa application fees and NHS surcharge fully covered
Research budget for materials, UK-based travel, and project costs
Dependent support allowance, if applicable
Full access to campus labs, gyms, and health services
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must meet the following conditions:
Must be a permanent resident of Malaysia
Be an early-career researcher, with or near completion of a PhD
Not hold a permanent research or academic position
Hold a first degree and relevant research experience
Be capable of meeting UK visa and language requirements
Not receive any other UK funding
Be committed to contributing to Malaysia’s socio-economic development post-fellowship
Even researchers without a PhD but with significant equivalent experience in technical fields may apply.
Application Timeline and Process
Applicants have to email the following documents to: [email protected]
Required Documents:
A two-page CV (highlighting research experience and skills)
A two-page research statement (project background, methods, and goals)
A cover letter (explaining fit and motivation for applying)
Key Dates:
Deadline: August 15, 2025
Interviews: October 31, 2025
Fellowship offers: November 30, 2025
Arrival in UK: January–February 2026
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?
The University of Bradford enrolls about 11,665 students, with roughly 22–27% (≈2,700–5,100) being international from over 110–150 countries. In global rankings, it stands at #531 QS (2025) and #501–600 THE (2025), and around #1,228 US News, with subject strengths in engineering, business, computer science, health, and peace studies. Bradford is also recognized for research expertise in sustainability, technology, and equality areas. The city also offers a lower cost of living than many major UK cities, along with a diverse and inclusive community.
Additional highlights:
State-of-the-art engineering research facilities
Family-friendly policies and support systems
Commitments to diversity (Athena Swan, Stonewall, Race Equality Charter)
Key Links:
For official guidelines, visit the scholarship office page.
Or stay updated through global scholarship updates on WeMakeYouScholar.com – your trusted source for study-abroad opportunities.
