Open Research Fellowship Programme 2026

Scholarship Amount

Variable benefits

About This Scholarship

The Open Research Fellowship Programme 2026 is offered by The University of Manchester through its Office for Open Research. This prestigious fellowship is specifically designed to support academic, professional, and technical services colleagues who are committed to advancing open, collaborative, and equitable research practices.

Selected fellows will receive substantial research support to successfully complete their innovative projects, alongside other variable benefits. This program seeks to foster a culture of openness within the research community by empowering individuals to lead initiatives that align with Open Research principles.

Applications for this fellowship open on 8 September 2025, providing ample time for potential candidates to prepare their proposals. The deadline for submitting applications is 24 October 2025.

Fellows will be selected through a rigorous process based on several key criteria:
• The quality, feasibility, and innovation of the proposed project.
• Its strong alignment with Open Research values and the established Open Research Skills Framework.
• A demonstrated commitment to fostering open and inclusive research practices.

For any inquiries or further information regarding the fellowship, you may contact the Office for Open Research at The University of Manchester, located at Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL. You can also reach them via email at openresearch@manchester.ac.uk. This fellowship represents a significant opportunity for individuals passionate about shaping the future of research through openness.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Open Research Fellowship Programme 2026, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

• Be an academic, professional, or technical services colleague at Grade 7 or below.
• Hold a permanent contract or a fixed-term contract that extends beyond the fellowship's conclusion date.
• Be willing to lead an innovative project that actively promotes Open Research practices.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following documents as part of their application for the Open Research Fellowship Programme 2026:

• A fully Completed Expression of Interest form.
• A detailed Project proposal that clearly aligns with Open Research principles and outlines the project's objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
• An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic qualifications, professional experience, and relevant research activities.

How to Apply

Eligible applicants can apply for the Open Research Fellowship Programme 2026 by following these steps:

1. Step 1: Click on the 'Apply Now' button, typically found on the official website's fellowship page.
2. Step 2: If you are a new user, click on the 'Register' button and fill in all the required registration details. If you have previously registered, simply log in using your Gmail account, mobile number, or email ID.
3. Step 3: Scroll down to locate the ‘Expression of Interest form 2026’ and complete all sections of the form thoroughly.
4. Step 4: After completing the form and preparing all necessary documents, email your application to ‘openresearch@manchester.ac.uk’. Ensure all required documents, including the completed Expression of Interest form, project proposal, and CV, are attached to the email.
The application period commences on 8 September 2025, with a strict deadline of 24 October 2025. All applications must be submitted by the deadline to be considered.