The British Council, in collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University, invites applications for the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) Early Career Fellowships. This prestigious 12-month programme offers nine exceptional early career researchers from Brazil, Egypt, and Thailand the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge interdisciplinary natural products research in the UK. The award includes a £33,000 stipend, research funding, travel and visa support, and access to extensive academic and professional resources.

Eligibility is open to early career researchers from Brazil, Egypt, or Thailand who are permanent residents in their home country and have not held a permanent academic or research post. Applicants must meet specific country requirements, demonstrate relevant expertise or interest in the research themes, fulfil LJMU’s English language criteria or equivalent, and not be receiving funding from other UK programmes.

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is a public research university in Liverpool, England, with roots tracing back to the Liverpool Mechanics’ School of Arts established in 1823. Named after local businessman and philanthropist Sir John Moores, the institution gained university status in 1992. The university has a strong civic focus and is deeply integrated into the life of the city. LJMU is also recognized for its commitment to providing career-oriented education and boasts strong partnerships with local and international businesses.

Application Deadline: The deadline for applications is 28 September 2025 (23:59 BST).

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) in partnership with the British Council

• Department: Centre for Natural Products Discovery (CNPD), School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, and other relevant schools or centres

• Course Level: Postdoctoral Research

• Award: £33,000 stipend, £12,500 research expenses, up to £8,000 travel/visa/insurance/childcare support, access to facilities, training, and mentoring

• Access Mode: Online application

• Number of Awards: 9 (3 for Brazil, 3 for Egypt, 3 for Thailand)

• Nationality: Brazil, Egypt, Thailand

• The award can be taken in: United Kingdom

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: Brazil, Egypt, Thailand

• Acceptable Course or Subjects: Fellowships will be awarded in interdisciplinary natural products research areas, including drug discovery, biodiversity, computational approaches, molecular toxicology, ethnopharmacology, and advanced drug delivery systems.

• Admissible Criteria: Applicants must:

  • Be permanent residents and currently residing in Brazil, Egypt, or Thailand.

  • Be Early Career Researchers who have not held a permanent academic/research-related role.

  • Meet country-specific requirements (e.g., Legal Amazon institutions for Brazil; public universities/research centres for Egypt).

  • Not receive funding from other UK programs.

  • Meet LJMU’s English language requirements or equivalent waiver criteria.

  • Have a background or proven interest in the proposed research area.

  • Demonstrate research plans, career development goals, and future contributions to their home country.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete an online application form and submit:

• Academic CV (max 5 pages, excluding publications list).

• Letter of recommendation from PhD/postdoc supervisor or advisor.

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online between October–November 2025, with fellowships starting no later than 31 March 2026.

Benefits

• £33,000 stipend for 12 months.

• £12,500 for research-related expenses.

• Up to £8,000 for travel, visa, insurance, and childcare support.

• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.

• Comprehensive career development through LJMU’s Researcher Development Programme.

• Mentoring, supervision, and inclusion in a global cohort-based training program.

• Opportunities for publication, conference presentations, and international networking.

Apply Now