Defra Research and Development Fellowship Programme 2026

About this opportunity

The Defra R&D Fellowship Programme places UK-eligible scientists, engineers, and analysts into paid 6–12 month roles within the UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, applying research and evidence to live policy challenges. Fellows are salaried (£33,590–£44,500 plus a possible £3,000 supplement) and based at UK hub offices; the 2026/27 round has now closed for applications.

Submissions are reviewed on a rolling basis against the criteria below. SAIGE captures your intent to apply — linking this opportunity to your business profile — before handing you off to Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra)’s official application. This keeps your activity in one place and helps us surface better matches over time.