UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has opened applications for the 2026 Policy Fellowships. Learn about the fellowship, eligibility, application process, and how researchers can contribute to UK public policy.
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has opened applications for its 2026 Policy Fellowships, providing researchers with an opportunity to work closely with UK government departments and public sector organizations on high-impact policy challenges.
The programme is designed to strengthen collaboration between academia and policymakers by enabling researchers to contribute their expertise to evidence-based policymaking while expanding their own professional experience.
About the UKRI Policy Fellowships
The UKRI Policy Fellowships support researchers who want to apply their knowledge directly to public policy. Fellows work alongside government departments, public bodies, and policymakers on projects addressing national priorities.
The programme helps bridge the gap between academic research and real-world policy development while encouraging long-term partnerships between universities and government institutions.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are intended for researchers who will serve as the Project Lead (or Fellow) if selected.
As part of the application process, applicants must confirm that:
- They will personally lead the proposed fellowship project if successful.
- Only they and their research office (where applicable) can edit the application.
- Where a research office exists, only that office may submit the application.
Application Process
Applicants begin by confirming that they are the individual leading the fellowship application before accessing the full application form.
UKRI advises prospective applicants to start an application only if they are the designated Project Lead or Fellow.
Guidance on completing the application and detailed eligibility information is available through the relevant funding opportunity on the UKRI Funding Finder.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful fellows have the opportunity to:
- Work directly with policymakers.
- Apply academic research to public policy challenges.
- Build relationships across government and academia.
- Develop experience in evidence-informed policymaking.
- Expand their professional networks.
- Increase the real-world impact of their research.
Why Apply?
The UKRI Policy Fellowships are particularly valuable for researchers interested in translating academic expertise into practical policy solutions. Fellows gain first-hand experience of how research informs government decision-making while contributing to projects with national significance.
Final Thoughts
The UKRI Policy Fellowships 2026 provide researchers with a unique opportunity to engage directly with the UK public policy community and help shape evidence-based decision-making. Researchers considering the programme should review the detailed guidance on the relevant UKRI funding opportunity before beginning their application.
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