£23m scheme to promote careers for scientists

A new £23 million scheme to improve the career prospects of researchers has been launched at the opening event of National Science Week today.

The new Academic Fellowship scheme will give £125k per Fellowship to universities to help young researchers move from the uncertainty of short-term contracts to a permanent academic job.

Currently, for many PhD students there is not a straightforward career ladder if they wish to progress in university research.

Sir David King, Chief Scientific Adviser to the government, said: "It is vital that UK universities attract the most gifted PhD students if our reputation for academic excellence is to continue and improve. We want the best brains to stay and succeed in science for the benefit of this country.

"The Academic Fellowship Scheme will provide extra funding to make the most of the skills and experience of young researchers, and create a much-needed bridge between contract work and permanent employment."

The scheme has been developed as part of the government's response to the review "SET for Success" published in April 2002 by Sir Gareth Roberts, which concluded that the UK did not have an adequate supply of people with science, technology and mathematics skills.

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have until 14 May 2004 to submit their applications for funding for Fellowships in their priority subject areas. The outcome of their applications will be announced later in the summer. HEIs will then advertise the Fellowship posts in open competition. It is intended that there will be up to 200 new five-year Fellowship posts created each year.

The funding for each Fellowship will be given to the HEI in equal instalments throughout the five-year period. The first instalment will be made this autumn.

Currently, £23 million funding has been earmarked for this scheme until the end of the current spending review period in 2006. It is anticipated that it will continue beyond that time, the government said.

(gmcg)