UK Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship Research: The Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship 2025 offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for established international researchers to undertake collaborative research for up to 12 months at a leading UK university or research institution. Aimed at enhancing global research partnerships and promoting scientific excellence, this fellowship is an ideal choice for high-impact scientists seeking a sabbatical research experience in the United Kingdom.
Overview of the Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship
In partnership with the Wolfson Foundation, the Royal Society invites leading international researchers to apply for the 2025 Wolfson Visiting Fellowship. This prestigious program is designed to:
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Attract globally renowned scientists to the UK in strategically important research areas
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Strengthen international research collaboration between UK and overseas institutions
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Support high-impact, innovative research across the UK scientific community
The fellowship provides up to £125,000 in funding and offers flexible research durations—ranging from 3 to 12 months full-time, or part-time over a period of up to 2 years.
UK Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship Research; Benefits
What the Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship Provides
Fellows can request comprehensive support to ensure a productive and impactful research stay in the UK, including:
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Bursary of up to £80,000 per year (full-time equivalent), with additional support or supplementation from the host institution
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Research expenses, covering consumables, small equipment (up to £10,000), travel, fieldwork, and visa fees
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Relocation and visa support for the fellow and their dependents
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Childcare funding during conferences and research-related travel
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Flexible arrangements to accommodate part-time work, sabbaticals, and parental or sick leave
All funding is designed to support a successful sabbatical and foster long-term international collaboration.
Available Subjects
- All Subjects
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship 2025, candidates must meet the following requirements:
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Be an internationally recognized researcher with a proven track record of independent, high-quality scientific research
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Be currently based outside the United Kingdom
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Have a confirmed invitation from a UK university or not-for-profit research institution willing to host the fellowship
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Work in a discipline within the natural sciences—such as biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, engineering, or biomedical sciences
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Not be relocating between institutions within the UK
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Be eligible for a Global Talent Visa under the UK’s fast-track endorsement route
There are no nationality restrictions—researchers from all countries are encouraged to apply.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities outside UK.
Application Procedure
The Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship operates through a nomination-based application process. The steps are as follows:
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A representative from the UK host institution—typically the Head of Department—must first contact the Royal Society at seniorfellowships@royalsociety.org to request a nomination form.
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Upon approval of the nomination, the host institution will receive a unique link for the nominated candidate to complete the full application via Flexi-Grant.
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Applications undergo an initial eligibility check, followed by expert peer review, and are then assessed by the Wolfson Fellowships Selection Panel.
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Final funding decisions are based on scientific excellence, the potential for impactful collaboration, and alignment with strategic research priorities.
UK Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship Research; Application Key Dates and Deadline:
Round 3:
- Open: 11 June 2025
- Close: 04 September 2025
- Decision by: 31 December 2025
Applications must be submitted via Flexi-Grant after nomination by a UK host institution.
Commitment to Equity and Inclusion
The Royal Society is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in science. Applicants from underrepresented backgrounds and those requiring adjustments due to disability are strongly encouraged to apply. Support includes:
- Deadline extensions
- Alternate formats of the application form
- Technical assistance during interviews
- Financial support for accessibility-related costs
All adjustment requests are handled confidentially.
Why Apply for the Royal Society Wolfson Fellowship?
This fellowship offers more than just funding—it’s a strategic opportunity for international researchers to:
- Advance high-impact scientific projects with UK collaborators
- Expand global research networks
- Access world-class research facilities in the UK
- Influence innovation in their field of expertise
The Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship 2025 is one of the UK’s most respected international fellowship programs, helping top scientists accelerate their careers while contributing meaningfully to the global scientific community.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a senior researcher or an emerging leader in science looking for a fully funded sabbatical opportunity in the UK, the Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship 2025 offers an outstanding platform. With substantial financial support, adaptable research arrangements, and access to leading UK institutions, this fellowship is designed to foster international collaboration and drive scientific progress.
Applications close on 04 September 2025. Start your nomination today.