University of Bradford ISPF Early Career Fellowship – 2026

Empowering Malaysian Researchers for Global Impact

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.

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🎓 Fellowship Level

• Early Career Research Fellowship

• Host Institution: University of Bradford, UK

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🧪 Eligible Research Areas

Fellows will be mentored by expert academics and embedded within high-impact research groups in the following areas:

1. Resilient Planet

• Flood detection and environmental modeling

• Pollution control and analytical chemistry

• Wastewater treatment and simulation

• Biodiesel production from waste cooking oil

2. Transformative Technologies

• AI and numerical modeling for energy systems

• Industrial decarbonization (steel, pharma, cement, energy)

• Machine learning applications for sustainability

3. Climate Action

• Carbon capture and storage (CCS, BECCS)

• Climate forecasting and flood risk analysis

• Societal strategies for climate adaptation

4. Sustainable Water Desalination

• Water treatment simulation and modeling

• Microbial impact studies and pollution monitoring

• Identification of alternative water resources

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💰 Fellowship Benefits

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

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🌍 Eligibility Criteria

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.

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📅 Application Timeline

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📄 How to Apply

Interested candidates should send the following documents via email to:
📧 ISPF-ECRF-Malaysia@bradford.ac.uk

1. Two-page academic CV (highlighting education, research, and publications)

2. Two-page research statement (your current research and fellowship goals)

3. Cover letter (explaining your suitability and motivation for this fellowship)

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🤝 Contact for Enquiries

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

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🏫 Why Choose the University of Bradford?

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

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🌟 Take Your Research Global

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.

APPLY HERE