The Leverhulme Early Career Fellowships 2026 at the School of Social and Political Science (SPS), University of Edinburgh, present an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers to develop independent research and strengthen their academic careers at one of the UK’s most prestigious institutions.
This fully funded postdoctoral fellowship supports talented scholars in producing publishable work, building a research portfolio, and collaborating with world-class mentors at the University of Edinburgh.
About the University of Edinburgh
Founded in 1583, the University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s oldest and most respected universities. Located in Scotland’s capital, it is globally recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.
The School of Social and Political Science (SPS) hosts leading scholars in disciplines such as politics, sociology, anthropology, international relations, and social policy, creating an intellectually vibrant community for researchers.
Fellowship Overview
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Degree Level: Postdoctoral Fellowship
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Duration: 3 years (full-time), part-time options available for family or health reasons
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Location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Funding Body: Leverhulme Trust
Available Research Areas
The fellowship welcomes proposals in the social and political sciences, including but not limited to:
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Sociology
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Social Policy
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Politics and International Relations
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Science, Technology and Innovation Studies
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Social Anthropology
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Social Work
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Centre of African Studies
Fellowship Benefits
Successful candidates will receive comprehensive support, including:
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Full salary funding for three years
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Research expenses and institutional contributions provided by the Leverhulme Trust
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Mentorship from University of Edinburgh faculty
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Access to world-class research facilities and academic resources
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Professional development opportunities to support long-term career goals
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualification
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Must hold a PhD or have submitted their doctoral thesis for viva voce no earlier than 19 February 2022.
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Thesis must be submitted for viva by 19 February 2026.
Career Stage
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Applicants must be within four years of their successful viva date.
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Allowances are made for career breaks (e.g., maternity, illness, or family care).
Nationality
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Open to applicants of all nationalities, though fellows must reside in the UK during the fellowship period.
Institutional Affiliation
Applicants must either:
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Hold a degree from a UK higher education institution, or
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Have held an academic post in the UK for at least four months before the application deadline.
School (SPS) Connection
Applicants with prior links to the University of Edinburgh or SPS are preferred, such as:
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Previous or current employment (minimum three months)
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Study affiliation at undergraduate or postgraduate level
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Ongoing research collaboration with SPS faculty
Research Record
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Must have a strong research profile with at least two peer-reviewed publications as lead author.
Exclusions
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Not open to candidates with permanent academic positions.
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Applicants who have served as Principal Investigators on a three-year postdoctoral project are ineligible.
Application Process
Step 1: Identify a Mentor
Find and secure a mentor from the School of Social and Political Science (SPS) who supports your project.
Step 2: Register Interest
Email your expression of interest to: ssps.research@ed.ac.uk as early as possible.
Step 3: Submit Application Documents
Send the following materials to SPS by Monday, 10 November 2025:
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2-page project proposal
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1-page bibliography or references
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2-page academic CV
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1-page mentor support statement
Formatting: Calibri or Arial, font size 11, margins 2 cm.
Step 4: Internal Review
Applications will be reviewed by the School Panel. Results will be announced by mid-December 2025, and successful applicants will receive feedback for final submission.
Step 5: Final Submission
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1 January 2026: Leverhulme Trust portal opens
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29 January 2026: Full draft with budget due for internal review
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19 February 2026: Final submission to Leverhulme Trust
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May 2026: Results announced
Conclusion
The Leverhulme Early Career Fellowship 2026 at the University of Edinburgh offers a remarkable opportunity for early-career researchers to establish themselves as independent scholars. With full financial support, world-class mentorship, and access to a rich research environment, this fellowship represents one of the most competitive and rewarding academic opportunities in the social and political sciences.
