Vice-Chancellor's Prize Fellow

Overview

Aston University is proud to launch the Vice‑Chancellor’s Prize Fellowship Scheme, an ambitious initiative designed to attract and develop exceptional research talent aligned to our 2030 Strategy.

This prestigious scheme supports researchers to grow their autonomy, lead innovative projects, and establish a strong national and international reputation, all while contributing to Aston’s vibrant, collaborative research culture.

We are offering up to 10 tenure‑tracked Fellowships across our academic Schools, and associated University Research Institutes and Research Centres. They are available at Grade 8 or Grade 9, depending on experience and research track record. Successful completion of the Fellowship, including its bespoke training and mentoring programme, leads to the opportunity for a permanent academic appointment from September 2029.

Join Our Live Webinar to learn more about the Fellowships, ask questions, and meet academic leaders.

Date: 3rd March Time: 10:00 - 11:00am (UK time) Joining Link: VC Prize Fellowships Info Event | Meeting‑Join | Microsoft Teams

• Build an independent research portfolio and develop distinctive, high‑impact research in a supportive environment with mentoring, peer networks and institutional backing.
• Access world‑class research teams by aligning with established and emerging areas of excellence across academic disciplines.
• Develop your academic career by engaging in teaching (up to 0.4 FTE), contributing to vibrant research communities, and strengthening your professional reputation.
• Receive tailored support to your stage of academic development, including signals of emerging research excellence (Grade
  8) and a more consolidated research profile with leadership, funding success, and international engagement (Grade
  9).
• Pursue a pathway to a permanent academic role, subject to progress, with transition to a permanent contract after three years.

• Aspiring to deliver internationally excellent research.
• Expertise aligned with Aston’s Research Institutes, Centres, or academic schools.
• May be clinical or industry professionals seeking a fractional contract to balance practice with existing research.

You may apply to only one Fellowship and should select the academic area and grade that best align with your expertise and ambitions.

• Grade 8 (Early Career):
• Grade 9:

Please find the job details and the proposal template below under further details. Please upload the Research Proposal as part of this application.

Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, with excellent transport links via bus or train. The role is offered as 'dynamic working', which means working both on campus (expected on campus 3 days per week) and from home dependent on activity. Further information on dynamic working can be found here.

• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts at activities and retailers; great family-friendly policies; on‑site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.
• This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted. Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility:

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