The University of Bradford, in collaboration with the British Council under the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), is pleased to invite applications from early-career researchers (ECRs) based in Malaysia for a fully funded 12-month research fellowship in the United Kingdom.
🗓 Application Deadline: 15 August 2025
🚀 Fellowship Start: Early 2026
This prestigious fellowship provides an opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects in engineering, digital technologies, and climate science—advancing global themes of sustainability, health, innovation, and planetary resilience.
Early Career Research Fellowship
Host Institution: University of Bradford, UK
Fellows will be mentored by expert academics and embedded within high-impact research groups in the following areas:
Flood detection and environmental modeling
Pollution control and analytical chemistry
Wastewater treatment and simulation
Biodiesel production from waste cooking oil
AI and numerical modeling for energy systems
Industrial decarbonization (steel, pharma, cement, energy)
Machine learning applications for sustainability
Carbon capture and storage (CCS, BECCS)
Climate forecasting and flood risk analysis
Societal strategies for climate adaptation
Water treatment simulation and modeling
Microbial impact studies and pollution monitoring
Identification of alternative water resources
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive support package, including:
£35,000 tax-free stipend (12 months)
Round-trip economy airfare (Malaysia ↔ UK)
Visa fees and NHS surcharge covered
Research project budget (materials, UK travel, etc.)
Dependent allowance (if applicable)
Full access to University of Bradford facilities:
Laboratories, collaborative workspaces, fitness center, and health services
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be a Malaysian citizen and permanent resident
Be an early-career researcher (PhD holder or near completion)
Not hold a permanent academic or research post
Hold a first degree in a relevant field (engineering, computing, sciences)
Meet UK visa and English language requirements
Not be receiving UK government funding from another source
Be committed to socio-economic development in Malaysia post-fellowship
📌 Applicants without a PhD but with equivalent research experience may also be considered, particularly from disciplines where PhDs are not customary.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 15 August 2025 |
| Shortlisting Notification | By 31 October 2025 |
| Final Fellowship Offers | By 30 November 2025 |
| UK Arrival | January/February 2026 |
| Fellowship Duration | February/March 2026 – 2027 |
Interested candidates should send the following documents via email to:
📧 ISPF-ECRF-Malaysia@bradford.ac.uk
Two-page academic CV (highlighting education, research, and publications)
Two-page research statement (your current research and fellowship goals)
Cover letter (explaining your suitability and motivation for this fellowship)
For questions or informal discussions, reach out to:
Dr. Maria Katsikogianni – M.Katsikogianni@bradford.ac.uk
Dr. Nejat Rahmanian – N.Rahmanian@bradford.ac.uk
Dr. Jaan Pu – J.H.Pu1@bradford.ac.uk
Located in one of the UK’s most affordable and welcoming cities, Bradford offers:
Lower living costs than major UK cities
Modern, inclusive, and family-friendly research environment
Advanced facilities for engineering, technology, and environmental research
Strong commitment to equality and diversity through initiatives like:
Athena Swan
Race Equality Charter
Stonewall Diversity Champions
The ISPF Early Career Fellowship 2026 is your chance to expand your research portfolio, engage in international collaborations, and develop solutions to global challenges. Equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, and connections to lead impactful research back home in Malaysia.
📌 Apply by 15 August 2025 to take your career to the next level on the world stage.