We’re delighted to launch our 2026 R&D Fellowship Programme for Defra.
Join us in using science and analysis to tackle some of today’s biggest policy challenges. For a third year, we’re offering the best and brightest from UK science, research and analysis a short-term experience of working at the policy interface through Defra’s Research and Development Fellowship Programme.
This year’s programme has now closed for applications.
Webinar
If you would like to find out more about the programme, please join Defra’s Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Anjali Goswami, for a live online event on Thursday 4th September from 13:30-14:30.
She will be joined by several early career scientists who have undertaken placements within Defra. Joining this event will give you an opportunity to find out more about working at Defra, and a chance to ask any questions.
This event has now passed. A recording of this webinar is available to watch here – Defra R&D Fellowship Programme Webinar 2026/27. You can view questions and answers from the webinar here.
“Defra is a great place to be a scientist with impact.” Hear from some of our current fellows at Defra.
“This fellowship has been an invaluable opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge in a government and policy setting.
The project has deepened my understanding of the types of scientific and robust evidence that are most valuable in informing policy.
It has challenged me to adapt my approach as a social scientist – particularly in how I synthesise and communicate research – which will benefit me whether I continue in academia or transition into the Civil Service in the future.“
Rorie Beswick-Parsons
Defra Fellow, 2025/26