We are delighted to announce that the Royal Society will continue its support for research returners through ongoing funding for Daphne Jackson Fellowships in 2026.
To date, the Royal Society have funded 21 Daphne Jackson Fellowships, supporting a diverse portfolio of research. These research projects address challenges across a wide range of fields – from strengthening resilience to storm impacts through improved understanding of climate system changes, to advancing the prevention of birth defects by uncovering how rubella affects early pregnancy.
“The Royal Society is delighted to support the Daphne Jackson Trust Fellowship, helping talented researchers to return to science and ensuring their valuable skills and expertise remain within the research community.”
Lesley Miles, Chief of Programmes, Partnerships & Engagement at the Royal Society
The Daphne Jackson Trust facilitates fellowships for researchers who have taken a break from their career of at least two years for family, caring or health reasons.
Dr Katie Perry, Chief Executive of the Trust comments;
“We are hugely grateful that the Royal Society will be continuing their commitment and partnership with the Daphne Jackson Trust. The additional support that Royal Society-funded Fellows receive is exceptional and brings real benefits to those returning to research. Fellows particularly value the opportunity to attend Royal Society events, where they can connect with peers on an equal footing and expand their professional networks”
Daphne Jackson Fellows make significant impact in their research fields and the wider sector. They have secured over £87million in research funding and produced more than 2,200 peer-reviewed publications. More than 70% of former fellows remain in research active work five years after their fellowship, and for every £1 invested in Daphne Jackson fellows they bring in an average of £3.50 in additional funding in their subsequent career.
As a small charity, to date the Trust has supported 533 research returners and saved over 2,400 years and £80million of research training, experience, and talent from being lost from the sector through a challenging, flexible research project.
Learn more about the impact and outcomes Daphne Jackson Fellowships deliver in our Impact Report 2026.
