About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The fellowships, which are tenable from October 2027, are designed for scholars who have recently completed or are about to complete their doctoral studies at recognized universities worldwide.
The competitive programme provides successful candidates with a unique platform to advance their research careers while becoming part of Oxford’s distinguished academic community.
Applications are now being accepted across five key academic disciplines, with the application deadline set for September 4, 2026.
Prestigious Fellowship Supports Outstanding Early-Career Researchers
The All Souls College Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship is widely regarded as one of the most respected academic fellowships available to emerging scholars. The fellowship provides recipients with the opportunity to focus intensively on their research within a vibrant intellectual environment that promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and academic excellence.
The programme is structured as a five-year, non-renewable fellowship, enabling researchers to undertake substantial and innovative scholarly work without the immediate pressures often associated with fixed-term academic appointments.
The fellowship is open to candidates from any recognized university globally, reinforcing Oxford’s commitment to attracting exceptional talent from diverse academic backgrounds and geographical regions.
Research Fellowship Areas for 2027
For the 2027 intake, All Souls College is seeking applications in the following academic fields:
Asian & Middle Eastern Studies
History of Art
History of Music
Law
Life Sciences
Theoretical Computer Science
These disciplines reflect the College’s tradition of supporting cutting-edge research across the humanities, social sciences, legal studies, life sciences, and emerging technological fields.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to contribute to internationally significant research while engaging with leading scholars and researchers across Oxford University.
A Unique Opportunity at One of Oxford’s Most Distinguished Colleges
Founded in the fifteenth century, All Souls College has long been recognized for its exceptional commitment to scholarship and intellectual inquiry. Unlike many colleges within the University of Oxford, All Souls is primarily dedicated to research and academic excellence, making it a highly sought-after destination for scholars from around the world.
The College is renowned for:
Supporting world-class research
Encouraging intellectual independence
Promoting interdisciplinary collaboration
Hosting distinguished academic fellows
Contributing to global scholarship and innovation
Post-Doctoral Research Fellows become part of a prestigious academic network that includes leading researchers, policymakers, legal scholars, scientists, historians, and public intellectuals.
ERC GREENLOSS
Fellowship Offers Five Years of Dedicated Research
One of the defining features of the programme is its five-year duration, providing fellows with sufficient time to develop ambitious research projects and establish themselves as leaders within their respective disciplines.
The fellowship enables researchers to:
Pursue independent academic research
Develop long-term scholarly projects
Publish high-quality research outputs
Collaborate with international experts
Participate in Oxford’s academic activities
Strengthen their academic profiles for future career opportunities
The extended duration distinguishes the programme from many shorter postdoctoral appointments and creates opportunities for meaningful scholarly contributions.
Ideal Candidates for the Fellowship
The fellowship is intended for outstanding scholars who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and significant research potential.
Eligible applicants include:
Recent doctoral graduates
Candidates nearing completion of a PhD or equivalent doctorate
Researchers from recognized universities worldwide
Scholars with innovative and impactful research agendas
Applicants are expected to present strong evidence of academic excellence, originality, and the capacity to make substantial contributions to their chosen fields.
Given the highly competitive nature of the programme, successful candidates typically possess impressive academic records, publications, conference participation, and evidence of research leadership.
Application Process Now Open
Prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully review all fellowship guidelines and eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.
Applicants must consult:
Fellowship Further Particulars
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Subject-specific guidance notes
Application instructions provided by the College
Applications must be submitted through the official online application platform managed by All Souls College.
Important Application Deadline
Researchers interested in applying should take note of the official application timeline.
Key dates include:
Application Deadline: Friday, September 4, 2026
Closing Time: 12:00 Noon (UK Time)
Fellowship Start Date: October 2027
Given the competitive nature of the programme, applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their application materials well in advance of the deadline.
Strengthening Global Research Excellence
The announcement of the 2027 Post-Doctoral Research Fellowships underscores All Souls College’s ongoing commitment to advancing world-class scholarship and supporting the next generation of academic leaders.
How to apply