Current Competitions

The Governing Body of Peterhouse, applying the benefactions of the late William Stone, former Scholar of the College, and others, intends to elect a number of Research Fellows, who will enter upon their tenure on 1 October 2027. Candidates must, by 1 October 2027, have passed all examinations required for a first degree at a university with a First-Class Honours classification. They should be capable of performing unsupervised post-graduate research. They must have completed their thesis no more than 18 months before the start of the Fellowship. Furthermore, candidates must be graduates of, or current students at, universities in the UK or the Republic of Ireland The College wishes to encourage applications from a wide range of candidates and the Fellowships are available in all branches of University studies. Nevertheless, those considering applying for a Fellowship at Peterhouse should be aware that candidates will be judged against the very highest academic criteria by assessors of international standing. The College receives a very high number of applications per place and successful candidates demonstrate exceptional abilities, beyond that of a good PhD. Potential candidates could usefully consult their research supervisor or some other knowledgeable person before deciding whether to apply The electors will make a shortlist of candidates who will be invited to submit dissertations or other written work. Some of these candidates will subsequently be invited for interview. The annual remuneration of a residential Research Fellow will, from 1 October 2026, be equivalent to point 35 on the University Scale, at present £32,882*. Stipends will be subject to deductions in consideration of emoluments from other sources. Research Fellows who wish to live in College will be provided with College accommodation free of rent and council tax.** The College will support the Fellow’s research expense claims up to a value of £1,752 and an entertainment allowance of £775*. For international candidates, all visa costs and health surcharges will be covered In the case of a Research Fellow who has not yet taken the Ph.D., the College may pay certain approved University fees. Research Fellows are expected to engage in full time research, but may be permitted to teach for up to six hours a week and will be paid for this. All Research Fellows are allowed seven free meals a week at the Common Table. In addition to pursuing research it is expected that Research Fellows will take a full part in College life and activities. The tenure is three years and in certain circumstances may be renewed. Up to one year’s absence may be granted. For further information on eligibility and how to apply, please click the 'Apply' button above from 7th August 2026 The closing date for receipt of electronic applications is Monday 7 th September 2026. Interviews will be held in College on Monday 7th December 2026. *subject to annual review. ** Note that accommodation-related benefits are taxable benefits under current HMRC rules. Please see advert for details