University of Oxford Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Sociology 2026 in UK | Fully Funded

The University of Oxford Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Sociology 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for outstanding early-career researchers seeking to advance their academic careers at one of the world’s leading universities. Hosted by the Department of Sociology at the University of Oxford, the fellowship provides funding, mentorship, and access to world-class research facilities for postdoctoral scholars.

The program supports independent research while encouraging collaboration with internationally recognized academics in a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment.

Fellowship Summary

• Host Country: United Kingdom
• Host Institution: University of Oxford
• Department: Department of Sociology
• Study Level: Postdoctoral
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Fellowship Type: Fully Funded
• Fellowship Duration: Up to 4 Years
• Benefits: Annual salary, research support, mentorship, professional development
• Application Deadline: 18 August 2026

About the University of Oxford Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

The University of Oxford is inviting applications from talented postdoctoral researchers for fully funded research fellowships within its Department of Sociology.

The fellowship provides an opportunity for scholars specializing in either qualitative or quantitative sociological research to pursue independent research while contributing to one of the world’s most respected academic communities.

Successful fellows will:

• Conduct high-quality independent research.
• Collaborate with leading sociologists and interdisciplinary researchers.
• Develop competitive research grant proposals.
• Receive academic mentoring and career development support.
• Participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and scholarly events.
• Undertake limited teaching responsibilities where appropriate.

The fellowship is designed to help researchers establish a strong academic profile and prepare for long-term careers in higher education and research.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Annual salary ranging from £49,119 to £58,265.
• Potential discretionary salary up to £65,336 per year (where applicable).
• Access to Oxford’s world-class libraries, research facilities, and academic resources.
• Professional development and mentoring opportunities.
• Opportunities for grant development and collaborative research.
• Participation in a leading international research community.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Strong academic research potential.
• A clear, original, and well-developed research agenda.
• Expertise in either qualitative or quantitative sociological research methods.
• A commitment to producing high-quality scholarly publications.
• Interest in securing external research funding.
• Ability to contribute to teaching and departmental activities.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Fellowship Conditions

Successful fellows are expected to:

• Conduct independent, high-quality research throughout the fellowship.
• Participate actively in the academic life of the Department of Sociology.
• Contribute to seminars, workshops, and collaborative research activities.
• Undertake limited teaching responsibilities where required.
• Produce high-impact research publications and pursue external funding opportunities.

How to Apply

To apply for the University of Oxford Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Sociology:

1. Visit the University of Oxford’s official online recruitment portal.
2. Create a new applicant account or log in to your existing account.
3. Complete the online application form with your personal, academic, and professional information.
4. Upload all required supporting documents in the specified format.
5. Carefully review your application before submission, as changes cannot be made afterward.
6. Submit your completed application before 18 August 2026.
7. Successful applicants will receive confirmation and be contacted regarding the next stages of the selection process.