Research depends more than ever on software that is reliable, reusable and well maintained. The Software Sustainability Institute (SSI) Fellowship Programme supports the people who make that possible.
Applications are now open for the 2027 cohort. Successful Fellows receive flexible funding, mentoring and membership of an international community dedicated to better research software practices.
SSI Fellowship Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Software Sustainability Institute Fellowship Programme 2027 |
| Funding | £4,000 flexible budget per Fellow |
| Duration | (15 months) |
| Number of Fellows | Around 20 (including up to 3 international) |
| Applications open | 10 August 2026 |
| Applications close | 5 October 2026 |
Benefits of Becoming an SSI Fellow
Successful Fellows receive:
- £4,000 flexible budget to organise or attend activities that promote good software practice
- Membership of an internationally recognised Fellowship network
- Matching with a mentor
- Access to cohort-based learning, monthly community calls and study groups
- Participation in the annual Collaborations Workshop
- Opportunities to influence research software practices and gain visibility
- Leadership development and community-building experience
- Support for activities that advance open science and sustainable research
The Institute follows the principle “Once a Fellow, always a Fellow,” continuing engagement beyond the initial 15-month period.
What the Fellowship Aims to Achieve
The programme identifies and supports people already making a difference in their communities. It helps them grow as leaders and advocates so their impact reaches further.
Key objectives include:
- Building leadership capacity in research software communities
- Promoting sustainable software development practices
- Supporting open and reproducible research
- Strengthening collaboration across disciplines and institutions
- Encouraging innovation in digital research methods and infrastructure
- Developing communities of practice around research software and digital skills
Also See: Jobberman MERL Fellowship 2026: Fully Funded 12-Week Programme in Africa
Who Should Apply
The Fellowship is open to individuals at any career stage who care about improving research through software, data and digital technologies.
Typical applicants include:
- Researchers who rely on software in their work
- Research Software Engineers (RSEs)
- Software developers supporting research
- Data scientists and data specialists
- Digital scholarship practitioners
- Open science advocates
- Community builders and research leaders
- Professionals working to improve computational research practices
Applicants from any background are welcome, including those without a formal software role who support research, training or research infrastructure.
Key Dates for the 2027 Cohort
- Applications open: 10 August 2026
- Launch webinar: 20 August 2026 (11:00–12:30 BST)
- Applications close: 5 October 2026
- Shortlist confirmation: 3 November 2026
- Online Selection Day: 12 November 2026
- Public announcement of Fellows: 9 December 2026
- Fellowship period: 1 January 2027 – 31 March 2028
Application Process
The process has two main parts:
- Complete the official online application form covering experience, achievements, community involvement and planned Fellowship activities.
- Submit a screencast video presenting ideas, motivations and vision for contributing to the Fellowship community.
Shortlisted candidates are invited to an Online Selection Day. Final selection draws on both the written and video materials and performance on the Selection Day.
Support for Applicants
Existing SSI Fellows are available to offer guidance and answer questions about the application process. Prospective applicants can request support through the Fellowship management team and connect with experienced Fellows for practical advice.
Detailed guidance documents cover eligibility shortlisting criteria, Selection Day assessment, terms and conditions and the Code of Conduct. Reviewing these materials carefully strengthens applications.
How to Apply for SSI Fellowship 2027
Applications close on 5 October 2026.
Full details, guidance documents and the application form are available on the official Software Sustainability Institute website:
https://www.software.ac.uk/programmes/fellowship-programme/apply-fellowship-programme
Questions can be sent to fellows-management@software.ac.uk.
A recording of the 20 August Launch Webinar is also available for anyone who missed the live session.