If you’re a Malaysian researcher looking to elevate your career through international collaboration and access to state-of-the-art facilities, the University of Bradford UK ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity. Backed by the British Council and the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), this prestigious fully funded fellowship allows early-career researchers from Malaysia to spend 12 months conducting cutting-edge research in the UK.
About the University of Bradford ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026
The ISPF Early Career Fellowship is hosted by the University of Bradford, a recognized UK institution known for innovation in engineering, digital technology, and climate research. This fellowship aims to foster global partnerships and enhance research capabilities in areas aligned with global priorities like climate action, transformative technology, and sustainability.
Targeting early-career researchers (ECRs), this initiative supports capacity-building in Malaysia by equipping scholars with resources, mentorship, and international exposure. The fellowship is fully funded and includes a generous £35,000 stipend, research budget, airfare, and more.
University of Bradford ISPF Fellowship Summary
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Host Institution | University of Bradford |
| Level of Study | Fellowship / Postgraduate Research |
| Eligible Degrees / Fields | Engineering, Climate Science, Digital Technologies |
| Scholarship Coverage | Fully Funded: Stipend, Airfare, Visa, Insurance, Research Budget |
| IELTS Requirement | Yes (for visa and academic purposes) |
| Eligible Regions / Nationalities | Malaysia |
| Application Deadline | 15 August 2025 |
| Destination Country | United Kingdom |
| Category | Fully Funded, Government Fellowship |
Benefits of the ISPF Early Career Fellowship
This fully funded research opportunity includes both financial support and professional development resources:
- £35,000 tax-free stipend for 12 months
- Return airfare (economy class) from Malaysia to the UK
- Visa and NHS surcharge covered
- Research budget for project-related expenses (UK travel, materials, etc.)
- Dependent allowance if applicable
- Ad hoc cost allowance for unexpected research-related expenses
- Campus access: Office, fitness centre, labs, meeting spaces, counselling and wellness support
Eligibility Criteria for the University of Bradford ISPF Fellowship
General Requirements
- Must be a permanent resident of Malaysia
- Hold or be near completion of a PhD (or equivalent research experience)
- Must not hold a permanent academic/research position
- Demonstrate research interest in engineering, digital technologies, climate science, or related disciplines
- Be eligible for UK visa and meet English language requirements
- Not currently receiving UK government research funding
- Committed to returning to Malaysia and contributing to development post-fellowship
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Preferred Profile
- Recently completed or awaiting final PhD viva
- Strong research track record
- Capacity for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge transfer
Required Documents for ISPF Fellowship Application
Applicants must email the following to ISPF-ECRF-Malaysia@bradford.ac.uk:
- Academic CV (2 pages): Highlighting research skills, publications, and experiences (Mandatory)
- Research Statement (2 pages): Detailing research interests, goals, and fellowship alignment (Mandatory)
- Cover Letter: Explaining your fit for the program and post-fellowship intentions (Mandatory)
Documents must be clearly formatted and submitted as PDFs. No need for notarization.
Application Timeline for ISPF Fellowship
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 15 August 2025 | Application submission deadline |
| 31 October 2025 | Shortlisted candidates invited for interview |
| 30 November 2025 | Fellowship offers issued |
| Jan/Feb 2026 | Fellows arrive in the UK |
| Feb–Mar 2026–2027 | Fellowship program duration |
Important: This is a strict deadline. Late submissions will not be considered.
How to Apply for the ISPF Early Career Fellowship
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Review Eligibility: Ensure you meet the academic and residency requirements.
- Prepare Documents: CV, research statement, and cover letter.
- Send Your Application: Email all documents to ISPF-ECRF-Malaysia@bradford.ac.uk before 15 August 2025.
- Interview Preparation: If shortlisted, be ready to discuss your research proposal and goals.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Tailor your research statement to one of the core research themes:
- Resilient Planet
- Transformative Technologies
- Climate Action
- Sustainable Water Desalination
- Emphasize potential impact on Malaysian development
- Submit documents early to avoid last-minute issues
FAQs about the ISPF Early Career Fellowship
Who is eligible?
Early-career Malaysian researchers who hold or are completing a PhD and meet the UK visa requirements.
Is IELTS required?
Yes, or an equivalent English language qualification for UK visa and academic purposes.
Can I apply from Malaysia?
Yes, this fellowship is designed specifically for Malaysian researchers.
When are results announced?
Shortlisted candidates will be notified by 31 October 2025. Final results by 30 November 2025.
Can I apply for other fellowships?
Yes, but you must not accept UK government funding from multiple sources.
Final Thoughts on the ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026
The University of Bradford ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 offers an unmatched opportunity to launch your global research career. With generous funding, expert mentorship, and access to world-class facilities, it is an ideal path for researchers passionate about climate resilience, engineering innovations, and digital technologies.
📌Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in the UK.
Application Deadline: 15th August 2025
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