51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Dr Sophie Morse received an 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Research Fellowship (2022–25) and is now Assistant Professor in the Department of Bioengineering at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø and UKRI Future Leaders Fellow.

Sophie applied for the fellowship during her postdoc and found that the fellowship significantly benefitted her onward career. “It gave me the absolutely perfect stepping stone to apply for my own grants, build my own group, and do my own research.”

think ahead to all the things you could do with the fellowship – where will it take you? Dr Sophie Morse

Sophie’s research looks at non-invasive ways to treat and delay the onset of brain disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, cognitive decline and tumours.

“For me, the key parts of the fellowship were the flexibility, length and the support from the Postdoc and Fellows Development Centre [now the Early Career Researcher Institute].” With career support, training courses and development opportunities, this institute is a key part of the fellowship, alongside a competitive salary, a contribution toward research and travel costs, and personal mentoring support from a senior member of 51³Ô¹ÏÍø academic staff.

A good candidate would be ambitious, have clear goals and be forward-looking Dr Sophie Morse

Ultimately, the fellowship was a crucial boost for her career. “My biggest achievement from the fellowship was how it supported me to secure my Assistant Professor role and a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship.”

“I’d advise prospective candidates to think ahead about all the things you could do with the fellowship – where will it take you? Be ambitious, set clear goals and think ahead.” 

Dr Sophie Morse was an 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Research Fellow from 2022 to 2025. Find out how an 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Research Fellowship could shape your future and apply today.