Applications are now open for the ESRC LISS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 in the UK. This chance targets early-career researchers in social sciences. You can work at top spots like King’s College London, Queen Mary University of London, and Imperial College London. The program builds your career. It does not fund new projects. Instead, it helps you grow your PhD work and skills.
This guide covers the key details. You will learn about the fellowship, its benefits, mentorship, research focus, eligibility rules, how to apply, the timeline, and a briefing session. By the end, you will know the steps to apply with confidence.
About the LISS ESRC Postdoctoral Fellowship
The London Interdisciplinary Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (LISS DTP) offers five ESRC-funded Postdoctoral Fellowships for 2026. These spots help early-career researchers right after their PhD. The goal is to boost your research profile. Hosts include King’s College London, Queen Mary University of London, and Imperial College London. You get a lively spot for interdisciplinary work.
The program stresses career growth over new studies. It focuses on these main goals:
- Strengthening your existing PhD research outputs
- Building academic and non-academic networks
- Developing professional and transferable skills
Fellowship Benefits and Funding
This fellowship gives strong support for your growth. It funds up to 9 months full-time or 18 months part-time. That covers your salary. You also get up to £7,500 for extra costs. All full-time fellowships must end by 30 June 2027.
Here are the key benefits:
- Salary coverage for the full term
- Up to £7,500 for mentorship support
- Funds for travel and conference participation
- Money for training and skills development
- Support for public engagement and impact activities
Mentorship and Collaboration Opportunities
Every fellow pairs with a mentor at the host school. The mentor must know your research area well. They should not be your PhD supervisor in most cases. Reach out to possible mentors early. The program also backs work with non-academic partners. That adds real-world impact.
Mentor criteria include:
- Expertise in your research field
- Based at the host institution
Collaboration benefits:
- Builds networks outside academia
- Boosts real-world research impact
Research Focus and Interdisciplinary Scope
You can apply with single-discipline ideas or interdisciplinary ones. But social sciences must make up at least 50% of your activities. Your plan must fit one of the LISS DTP’s set research areas.
Key Rule: Social sciences = at least 50% of fellowship activities
This keeps the focus on social science strengths.
Eligibility Criteria
You must meet ESRC rules to apply. Check them all before starting. The program is open even if you lack prior ESRC funds.
Key criteria:
- PhD from a UK research organization
- PhD awarded or viva passed (minor amendments only) by 1 June 2026, fully awarded by 1 October 2026
- No more than 15 months of active postdoctoral experience by 1 June 2026
- Only one application to a single DTP
- If you need a UK work visa, confirm your eligibility first
- Prior ESRC funding not required
Application Process
The process has two stages. Start by checking ESRC call specs and eligibility. Find a mentor early. Shortlisted applicants move to stage two. Use these forms: online EOI application, Diversity Monitoring Form, full proposal form. See more at the LISS DTP page.
Stage 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)
Follow these steps:
- Review ESRC call specifications and eligibility.
- Contact a potential mentor.
- Submit the online EOI application.
- Complete the Diversity Monitoring Form.
Deadline: 13 April 2026 at 10:00 AM. Only shortlisted candidates advance.
Stage 2: Full Proposal
Shortlisted applicants submit a full proposal.
Deadline: 1 June 2026 at 23:59.
Competition Timeline
Key dates help you plan. Here is the full schedule:
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| EOI Deadline | 13 April 2026 |
| EOI Results | End of April 2026 |
| Full Proposal Deadline | 1 June 2026 |
| Interviews | Early July 2026 |
| Final Decisions | July 2026 |
| Submission to ESRC | By 23 July 2026 |
| Fellowship Start Date | 1 October 2026 |
| Fellowship End Date | 30 June 2027 |
Applicant Briefing Session
Join this session for tips on the fellowship and application. It clears up questions fast.
Date: 27 March 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Details here. Go if you can. It helps a lot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the ESRC LISS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026?
Early-career researchers with a PhD from a UK institution awarded by 1 October 2026 and no more than 15 months of postdoc experience by 1 June 2026 can apply.
What benefits does the fellowship offer?
It covers your salary for up to 9 months full-time, plus up to £7,500 for mentorship, travel, training, and public engagement activities.
How do I start the application process?
Review eligibility, contact a potential mentor at a host institution, and submit the online EOI form and diversity monitoring form by 13 April 2026.
What are the key deadlines for 2026?
EOI deadline is 13 April 2026, full proposal for shortlisted applicants is 1 June 2026, with fellowships starting 1 October 2026 and ending by 30 June 2027.
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