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07/05/2019

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has launched its first call to support a new generation of visionary scientists, in memory of Professor Stephen Hawking.

Working with the Hawking family, UKRI will support up to 50 postdoctoral scientists in theoretical physics for up to five years.

The fellowships recognise Professor Hawking’s exceptional contributions to scientific knowledge and the popularisation of science.

Each fellowship provides up to four years’ funding, dependent on the nature of the proposed research, for fellows with a strong passion for curiosity-driven science, who seek to challenge current assumptions and inspire the public through their work.

Professor Stephen Hawking, who passed away in 2018 aged 76, was instrumental in providing greater insights into how the universe was created and is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant minds in science.

Stephen’s children Robert, Lucy and Tim Hawking said: “We are delighted that our father's legacy will enable brilliant young scientists to make a contribution to the fields of science that were so important to him.  He would be so pleased to know that fellowships in his name would be helping young scientists to further their careers.  

“We're very grateful to UKRI for setting up such a great scheme. We hope that the Stephen Hawking Fellowships will attract applications from a diverse range of young scientists, both in the UK and internationally.”

Fellows will be supported with training in public engagement and scientific communication to help them inspire a wider audience to explore complex scientific ideas, continuing Professor Hawking’s legacy of bringing science into popular culture.

UKRI Chief Executive, Professor Sir Mark Walport, said: “Professor Hawking combined a fierce desire for knowledge with a rare ability for communicating both the wonder of our universe and the value in understanding it.

“The Stephen Hawking Fellowships will continue his legacy by supporting a new generation of scientists to push the boundaries of knowledge and inspire the public with their discoveries.”

For further information on how to apply, visit the call page.