Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the application procedure?

Please note that the call for applications is not currently open (last closed 16th December 2012). The below information is provided for reference only. Check the UCL Excellence Fellowships website for details of the next call, expected in late 2013.

Applications for the position should be made online at www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/jobs and should include 

  • A personal statement, to include i) a research proposal with emphasis on vision and ambition, ii) The name of the UCL Sponsor with whom you have already discussed your research proposal, iii) the names and addresses of three referees (including at least one referee based outside your own country of residence), and iv) your current salary details
  • Your Curriculum Vitae (this should be uploaded as an attachment).

2. What is the duration of the appointment? 

UCL Excellence Fellows are funded for three years in the first instance. Excellence Fellows are encouraged to apply for their own external fellowship during the tenure of this post.  Further continuation of funding is dependent on the appointee achieving agreed tangible outputs in relation to research progress, publications and income generation.  Full terms and conditions of employment for research staff can be found at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/salary_scales/Support_Research_tcs.php

3. What is a UCL Sponsor and how do I get one? 

Applicants are requested to make contact and talk through their application with a PI/Senior academic within the Division/Institute/Department relevant to their area of research. All of UCL’s research and contact details are accessible online via UCL IRIS. 

4. I've been successful at interview! When do I start the role?

This is agreed between the successful candidate and the host Division/Institute.

5. What additional funding is provided for the post? 

Excellence Fellows will receive an additional £25k to be used freely to support his/her research. Fellows who already hold an externally funded fellowship will also receive an additional percentage of the salary budget received by UCL (to a maximum of £50k). 

Fellows without existing external funding will be expected to apply for externally funded support within the first two years of appointment. Funds may originate from government, charities or the commercial sector.  

6. What is the typical starting salary? 

Salary will be offered dependent on experience. Salaries are paid monthly in arrears by direct transfer to your bank account.  Progression through the salary scale is incremental and will take place on 1st August each year. Cost of living pay awards are negotiated nationally and are effective from 1st August each year.

7. Will I have the opportunity to supervise a PhD student?

Typically, UCL Excellence Fellows will have the opportunity to co-supervise a PhD student co-with their UCL sponsor.  

8. Will I have a mentor?

Fellows will be mentored by two senior UCL academics, typically one selected by the fellow and one nominated by UCL. The two mentors will closely monitor the career development of the fellow, and all mentors, acting as a team, will oversee and nurture the development of the whole group.