Foster Global Science: Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship 2025
Fellowship Overview
This scheme grants exceptional overseas researchers—typically at senior career level—a flexible 12-month fellowship (minimum three months, full-time or over two years). Awardees may request up to £125,000, including a fellowship bursary (up to £80,000/year), research expenses (up to £10,000), relocation and visa costs for dependents, and other justified costs. Additional support like childcare during research trips is available
Who Is Eligible
Ideal applicants are internationally leading researchers based outside the UK, with a proven record of independent, high‑quality research and leadership. You must hold a confirmed offer from a UK host institution before applying. Research must fall within the Royal Society’s remit – including but not limited to fields such as biological sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics
Benefits & Funding Coverage
Funding supports:
- A bursary of up to £80,000/year (possibly supplemented by the host)
- Up to £10,000 for research consumables, travel, visa costs, minor equipment
- Relocation and visa costs for the fellow and eligible dependents
- Support for childcare during professional travel
- Flexible part-time working or sabbatical arrangements for personal circumstances
Selection Process
Applications are assessed through a multi-stage peer review: initial eligibility checks, two expert reviews, shortlisting, and final panel selection. Selection criteria focus on scientific excellence, project feasibility, collaborative potential, and institutional commitment from the UK host
Why It Matters
This fellowship provides a rare chance to conduct research in the UK with full financial support and institutional backing. It enables scientific leaders to build enduring collaborations, access top-tier infrastructure, and amplify the impact of their work within an internationally rich research community
To apply, your host department must nominate you by contacting the Royal Society Grants Office. After nomination, you receive an application link to complete the full submission in Flexi-Grant