The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) has launched a new International Fellowships Scheme, which is expected to enhance global talent in fusion energy research
This fellowship aims to foster international collaboration while advancing the future of sustainable fusion power.
Developing the future of fusion talent
The International Fellowships Scheme is part of the Fusion Opportunities in Skills, Training, Education and Research (FOSTER) Programme.
This programme gives the next generation of scientists and engineers the skills and experience they need to deliver fusion energy to the grid.
Designed for post-doctoral researchers, the scheme will offer high-impact research opportunities that cover international borders. The overall goal is to educate early-career researchers and provide them with exposure to cutting-edge fusion science through partnerships and hands-on collaboration.
Dual fellowship model for cross-border collaboration
Every fellowship will be assigned to two researchers working as a team, one based in the UK and the other in a partner institution abroad.
Both Fellows will work in areas of shared research interest, focusing on addressing the primary obstacles to the development of fusion energy.
Fellows will be employed by their respective institutions, with UKAEA funding the UK-based Fellow and the partner university supporting the internationally based one. Each fellowship will last two years and include a minimum 12-week exchange between institutions, promoting cross-cultural collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
This model makes sure that researchers benefit from an international perspective while also deepening institutional capabilities on both sides.
NTU Singapore: First partner in the scheme
UKAEA’s first collaboration under the International Fellowships Scheme is with Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore, a global leader in science and engineering education and research. NTU has already begun recruiting for its first Fellows, building on a successful pilot phase of the programme.
This partnership strengthens the ongoing academic ties between the UK and Singapore, supporting both countries’ goals in clean energy innovation. By leveraging their resources and expertise, the two institutions aim to make significant advances in fusion research while also cultivating future global leaders in the field.
Building global fusion skills
The International Fellowships Scheme also aligns with the FOSTER programme, which is one of several initiatives under the UK’s Fusion Futures Programme. FOSTER backs 32 different projects that contribute to building a global fusion skills ecosystem.
Through partnerships with like-minded international institutions, FOSTER aims to enhance access to advanced research, professional development, and global mobility opportunities for early-career researchers. The overall aim is to ensure that the next generation of fusion professionals has the expertise needed to help commercialise fusion energy.
The first cohort of Fellows under the International Fellowships Scheme is expected to begin in Autumn 2025. With its launch, UKAEA is not only investing in individual talent but also strengthening international ties that are vital to solving complex global energy challenges.
More details on the FOSTER programme and how to get involved in the International Fellowships Scheme can be found on UKAEA’s website. International organisations or individuals interested in participating can reach out via email at fusionskills@ukaea.uk.
