Researchers working at the interface of critical minerals, resource security, and sustainable processing may be interested in a new Senior Research Fellowship opportunity announced by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
The FCDO, through its Global Research and Technology Development (GRTD) Research Commissioning Centre, is recruiting eleven Senior Research Fellows across a range of strategic themes, including a dedicated fellowship in Critical Minerals. The programme aims to embed leading academics within government, strengthening the use of evidence and research in UK foreign and development policy.
The fellowships offer a unique opportunity for senior researchers to contribute directly to policymaking on issues of global importance. For the critical minerals theme, this could include challenges relating to secure and sustainable supply chains, resource governance, circular economy approaches, mineral processing innovations, and the role of emerging technologies in supporting resilient mineral value chains. These priorities align closely with ELEMENTAL’s focus on engineering biology solutions for metal recovery, processing, and critical mineral sustainability.
Successful applicants will undertake a two-year placement at 0.4 FTE, hosted by the FCDO in either London or East Kilbride, while remaining employed by their home UK academic institution. Fellowships are scheduled to begin on 1 April 2027, following interviews in October 2026.
Applicants must be employed by a UK academic institution and hold at least Associate Professor-level seniority (or equivalent). Security clearance requirements apply. Applications are open until 30 August 2026 (5pm GMT) and will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
For researchers interested in translating cutting-edge science into policy impact, this fellowship represents an opportunity to help shape the UK’s approach to critical minerals and resource resilience at a pivotal time for global supply chains and the energy transition.
Further information and application details: FCDO Senior Research Fellowships Call