Are you a researcher with a passion for public impact? The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Policy Fellowships 2025 are now open—offering a game-changing chance for academics to bring their expertise into the heart of UK policymaking.
This year, 42 fellowship opportunities are up for grabs across 29 government departments, devolved administrations, and the What Works Network. Whether you’re an early-career scholar or a mid-career researcher looking to shape national and global challenges through evidence-based insight, this fellowship is for you.
What’s the Goal?
The UKRI Policy Fellowships are designed to bridge the gap between academia and public policy—embedding researchers into policy environments to help tackle some of the most urgent problems of our time. Fellows will contribute to live policy questions, drive innovation, and help improve how evidence is used in decision-making.
UKRI Types of Fellowships Available
The 2025 program offers three distinct tracks:
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Core Policy Fellowships
For early and mid-career academics focusing on major UK public policy priority areas. These may align with government missions in areas like health, education, justice, climate, and more. -
Natural Hazards and Resilience Fellowships
For researchers working to improve resilience to natural disasters, such as extreme weather events and geological hazards. Perfect for academics in environmental sciences, engineering, and related fields. -
What Works Innovation Fellowships
Open to researchers at any career stage, these fellowships are placed within the What Works Network and focus on generating, using, and sharing robust evidence to inform smarter public services.
What You’ll Gain?
- A fully-funded 18-month fellowship embedded within a major UK policy organisation
- Opportunities for cutting-edge interdisciplinary research directly tied to pressing public issues
- Mentorship, training, and cohort networking with like-minded academics and policy experts
- Real-world experience applying your academic insights in high-impact settings.
Who Can Apply?
Researchers must be based at a UKRI-eligible institution and work in the economic or social sciences, or demonstrate relevant interdisciplinary knowledge for the chosen policy area. Early and mid-career researchers are encouraged to apply for most streams, while the What Works fellowships are open to all levels of experience.
Apply: https://masts.ac.uk/news/ukri-policy-fellowships-2025-funding-opportunity/
The last date to apply for the UKRI Policy Fellowships 2025 is 15 July 2025.