It aims to enhance knowledge transfer in science and technology between those in industry and those in academia in the UK.
The scheme provides a basic salary for the researcher and a contribution towards research costs.
The scheme is funded by the Royal Society, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, the Natural Environment Research Council, Rolls-Royce plc and BP plc.
Eligibility requirements
The scheme covers all areas of the life and physical sciences, including engineering, but excluding clinical medicine.
The applicant must:
- have a PhD or be of equivalent standing in their profession
- hold a permanent post in a university, not-for-profit research organisation or industry in the UK
- be at a stage in their career when they would particularly benefit from establishing or strengthening personal or corporate links between academia and industry as a foundation for long-term collaboration and development
Applications involving spin-offs or small companies are encouraged. Applicants should clearly state how the fellowship will benefit the not-for-profit research organisation, especially in cases where the applicant has financial involvement within the company. Applicants should also state which complementary skills the employees at the company can offer.
Applicants should ensure that they meet all the eligibility requirements, which are explained in the scheme notes (PDF).
Value and tenure
The scheme provides the applicant’s basic salary while on secondment. The employing organisation continue to pay national insurance and pension contributions.
Research expenses may be claimed up to the value of £2,000 per year. Awards can be for any period up to two years full-time or a maximum of four years pro rata, i.e. an award could be held at 50% part-time for four years enabling fellows to maintain links with their employing institution more easily.
The Royal Society and Society of Chemical Industry PhD studentships
The Society is collaborating with the Society of Chemical Industry to provide some successful Industry Fellowship applicants with funding for a PhD studentship. The source of this funding is the legacy of Dr Sydney Andrew a former Fellow of the Royal Society and Member of the Society of Chemical Industry. Applicants from academia may apply for a PhD studentship as part of their Industry Fellowship application only if their research is:
Within the remit of the Society of Chemical Industry;
In an area of science which although of importance in agriculture and the chemical industry nevertheless receive scant attention from academic research.
Funding is available for one PhD studentship per round. More information about eligibility criteria and the value of the Society of Chemical Industry PhD studentship is available from the scheme notes (PDF).
Application process
Applications are initially assessed by Industry Fellowship panel members and a shortlist is drawn up. Shortlisted applications are then sent for independent review and are finally considered at a panel meeting, together with their nominated and independent references.
It is expected that applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application 4 months after the closing date.