Are you an early-career researcher dreaming of immersing yourself in world-class academic circles? Here’s your chance to secure a prestigious postdoctoral research opportunity at one of the oldest and most esteemed colleges at the University of Cambridge — Peterhouse. The Peterhouse Research Fellowships 2026 offer exceptional young scholars the freedom to pursue independent research, enjoy generous support, and become a valued part of an intellectually rich college community.
What Is the Peterhouse Research Fellowship?
Administered by the Governing Body of Peterhouse, these Research Fellowships are funded through the generosity of past benefactors such as William Stone and others. The program is designed to support highly capable scholars who are ready to engage in independent research from 1 October 2026 onward.
Fellows will receive:
- A salary of £32,172 (subject to change as per the University scale),
- Free College accommodation (with no rent or council tax),
- A research allowance of up to £1,796,
- An entertainment allowance of £794,
- Visa and health surcharge coverage for international researchers,
- Seven free meals per week at the Common Table,
- And possible payment of University fees for those who have not yet completed their Ph.D.
In addition to full-time research, Fellows may opt to teach for up to six hours a week, for which they will be paid separately.
Who Is Eligible?
To apply, you must:
- Be a graduate of or currently enrolled at a university in the UK or the Republic of Ireland,
- Have completed all examinations required for your first degree with at least a 2.i classification (or equivalent) by 1 October 2026,
- Be ready to conduct unsupervised postgraduate research,
- Have submitted your PhD no more than 18 months prior to the Fellowship’s start date.
Application Process
The application process is competitive and merit-based. A shortlist will be made from initial applications, and selected candidates will be invited to submit their dissertations or written work. A final round of shortlisted candidates will then be invited to an interview.
Fellowships are offered for an initial three (03) year term, with the possibility of renewal. Additionally, Fellows can apply for up to one (01) year’s absence to pursue other academic opportunities or research abroad.
Apply: https://www.pet.cam.ac.uk/research-fellowships.
Important Dates
Applications for the Peterhouse Research Fellowships 2026 at the University of Cambridge will open on 11 August 2025. Interested candidates must submit their complete electronic applications by the deadline of Monday, 8 September 2025.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit written work for review, and selected finalists will proceed to the interview stage. Successful candidates will begin their Fellowship tenure on 1 October 2026.
