The NIHR SSCR Post Doctoral Research Fellowships scheme is now open for applications.
Through this funding, Post-Doctoral Researchers can develop independent careers in in social care research.
Deadline for applications: Friday 8th May 2026 (17:00, BST).
Key Information
- The NIHR School for Social Care Research (SSCR) is dedicated to developing the evidence base for adult social care practice in England. Our mission is to fund and support high-quality research that improves the wellbeing, independence, dignity, and quality of life of people who use care services, unpaid carers, families, and communities. SSCR also aims to build capacity in social care research, supporting early-career researchers and strengthening links between research, policy, and practice.
- The SSCR is awarding Fellowships to support Post-Doctoral Researchers committed to developing independent careers in social care research. These Fellowships will enable applicants to establish collaborations, undertake independent research, publish findings, develop new methodological skills, and prepare for future funding opportunities.
- Applicants should hold a PhD in social care, social policy, or a relevant discipline and will have some experience of contributing to research projects, publications, or related activities, but will not yet be established as independent research leaders.
- Awards will be available for up to 24 months full-time and up to £200k will be available. These awards can fund salary including overheads, plus research consumables, conference travel and training in research skills and methods.
Award Guidance
It is very important to read the guidance in full before beginning your application. Completed application documents (application form, costing template, CV, and cover letter) should be submitted to sscr@york.ac.uk by Friday 8th May 2026 (17:00, BST) to be considered.
Download this guidance as a .pdf
Download a copy of the SSCR Post-Doctoral Fellowship application form
Please read the guidance in full and complete all required documents before submitting your application.
Register Interest
Register your interest in applying for the NIHR SSCR Post-Doctoral Fellowship Scheme and let us know if you’d like to receive important updates and reminders during the application process.
Visit funding web page
(https://sscr.nihr.ac.uk/career-development/social-care-research-career-opportunities/post-doctoral-fellowships)
