The energy sector is rapidly evolving as countries worldwide seek sustainable solutions and market reforms to meet rising energy demands while addressing the challenges of climate change. In this pursuit, international collaboration has become essential for fostering innovation and exchanging best practices.
The Chevening Energy Market Reform Fellowship 2025, hosted by the University of Dundee’s Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law Policy (CEPMLP), provides an exceptional platform for professionals in China’s energy sector to contribute to this global dialogue. By participating in this fully funded fellowship, participants will engage in cutting-edge research, gain access to world-class academic resources and collaborate with experts to explore innovative solutions for energy market reform.
This prestigious fellowship not only offers an unparalleled opportunity for professional development but also plays a crucial role in strengthening the relationship between the UK and China in the context of energy market reforms.
Fellows will be immersed in a rich academic environment, supported by a dedicated academic supervisor, while also benefiting from cultural and networking opportunities organized by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the Chevening Secretariat. Through this fellowship, participants will enhance their knowledge and leadership capabilities, equipping them to make a lasting impact in the global energy sector.
Fellowship Overview
The Chevening Energy Market Reform Fellowship is a distinguished initiative that is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). It specifically targets senior officials and professionals working within China’s energy industry. This fellowship is part of the broader UK-China Energy Dialogue, which serves as a strategic platform designed to strengthen cooperation between the UK and China on crucial matters such as energy market reforms, energy security and efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change. By participating in this fellowship, individuals in China’s energy sector are given the chance to engage in meaningful dialogue, research and knowledge exchange with international experts, which ultimately benefits both countries.
Structure of the Programme
Selected fellows will spend a period of three months at the University of Dundee, where they will be immersed in a research-oriented environment. This experience is tailored to align with the overarching objectives of the UK-China Energy Dialogue. During their time at the University of Dundee, participants will have full access to all classes, lectures and seminars available at CEPMLP, which is recognized internationally as a leading center for energy and legal studies. The fellowship is designed to provide participants with ample opportunities for academic growth and each fellow will receive the guidance and support of an academic supervisor throughout the duration of the programme.
Research and Academic Involvement
The cornerstone of the fellowship is the research project that each fellow will undertake. The research topics are carefully chosen to align with the wider goals of energy market reform. During the interview stage, the research topic will be discussed and refined in collaboration with a CEPMLP faculty member to ensure that the chosen project is both impactful and feasible. Throughout the fellowship, participants will have access to a wealth of academic resources, including opportunities to network with peers, attend relevant seminars and explore global best practices related to energy, petroleum and mineral law. This immersive academic experience is aimed at equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to ongoing energy reforms both in China and globally.
Cultural and Networking Opportunities
Beyond the academic and research aspects, fellows will also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of cultural events and activities that are organized by the FCDO and the Chevening Secretariat. These events are designed to facilitate interactions with other international scholars and professionals from diverse backgrounds. By engaging with a wide network of peers, fellows can broaden their perspectives and gain valuable insights into the challenges and solutions faced by other countries in the realm of energy reform.
Programme Benefits
The Chevening Energy Market Reform Fellowship is a fully funded programme that offers a range of benefits to its participants, ensuring that they can focus entirely on their professional and academic development. The comprehensive benefits package includes:
- Full coverage of all academic fees related to the fellowship programme
- Living expenses for the duration of the fellowship to alleviate any financial concerns
- A return economy-class airfare from China to the UK
- Full access to classes, lectures and seminars at CEPMLP, enabling participants to fully immerse themselves in the academic environment
- Support from a dedicated CEPMLP supervisor to guide their research efforts
- Opportunities to participate in cultural events and networking activities organized by the FCDO and the Chevening Secretariat
Eligibility Criteria
The Chevening Energy Market Reform Fellowship is open exclusively to Chinese nationals. Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria in order to be considered for the fellowship:
- Nationality and Residence: The fellowship is limited to Chinese nationals who intend to return to China upon completing the programme.
- Professional Experience: Applicants must have a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in the energy sector. This includes individuals who are currently employed in the sector or are pursuing a PhD in a related field. However, PhD candidates from UK, EU or USA universities are not eligible.
- Academic Qualifications: Applicants are required to hold a postgraduate-level qualification (or equivalent professional training) in a relevant field.
- Employment Restrictions: Applicants must not have been employed by His Majesty’s Government, the FCDO or other specified UK government entities within the last two years. Furthermore, applicants must not hold dual nationality if one of the nationalities is British.
- Chevening Partner Employment: Those employed by Chevening Partner organizations within the past two years are eligible to apply, but they cannot receive a partner award from their affiliated organization.
- Previous UK Government-Funded Scholarship Recipients: Individuals who have previously received a UK government-funded scholarship are eligible to apply for this fellowship after a five-year period has passed since the completion of their prior award. Applicants should be able to demonstrate career progression and leadership in their field since receiving their previous award.
Application Process and Timeline
Applications for the Chevening Energy Market Reform Fellowship 2025-2026 are now open. The deadline for submission is 5 November 2024. Below is a detailed timeline of the application and selection process:
- Applications Open: 6 August 2024
- Application Deadline: 5 November 2024
- Sifting of Applications: Beginning 6 November 2024
- Reading Committee Assessments: Mid-November 2024 to January 2025
- Shortlisting of Candidates for Interviews: Mid-February 2025
- Deadline for References and Educational Documents: 19 February 2025
- Interview Period: 26 February to 25 April 2025
- Results Announcement: From May 2025
- Fellowship Commencement: September to December 2025
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the Chevening Fellowships portal by the specified deadline. As part of the application, candidates are required to submit a detailed research proposal that outlines their research objectives and highlights the relevance of their experience to energy market reform. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in interviews, which will be conducted at the British Embassy or High Commission in China.
The Chevening Energy Market Reform Fellowship, hosted by the University of Dundee, presents a unique and prestigious opportunity for professionals in China’s energy sector to engage in international collaboration and research. This fellowship not only provides participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to advance energy market reforms in their home country but also fosters stronger ties between the UK and China in the global effort to address energy challenges. By participating in this programme, fellows will contribute to shaping the future of the energy sector while enhancing their own professional capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this fellowship?
The fellowship is open to Chinese nationals with at least five years of professional experience in the energy sector. Applicants must hold a postgraduate qualification or equivalent professional training and intend to return to China after completing the fellowship.
What are the benefits of this fellowship?
The fellowship provides full coverage of programme fees, living expenses, return airfare from China to the UK, access to academic resources, cultural events, networking opportunities and dedicated support from a CEPMLP supervisor for research projects.
What kind of research will fellows engage in?
Fellows will work on research projects focused on energy market reform, which will be refined with input from a CEPMLP faculty member. These projects aim to contribute to the broader UK-China Energy Dialogue on energy market reforms and climate change.
How long does the fellowship last?
The fellowship lasts for three months, during which participants will be fully immersed in research and academic activities at the University of Dundee.
What is the application deadline for the 2025 fellowship?
The application deadline for the Chevening Energy Market Reform Fellowship 2025 is 5 November 2024. Applications can be submitted via the Chevening Fellowships portal.
Can individuals who have previously received UK government-funded scholarships apply?
Yes, but applicants who have previously received UK government-funded scholarships are eligible only if at least five years have passed since the completion of their prior award.
Is there any restriction on who can apply based on employment history?
Applicants who have been employed by His Majesty’s Government, the FCDO or certain other UK government entities within the past two years are not eligible. Additionally, applicants with British dual nationality are also ineligible.
What is the selection process for the fellowship?
After the application deadline, there will be a review and sifting process, followed by assessments and interviews. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed between February and April 2025 and the final selection will be announced in May 2025.
How can I apply for the fellowship?
Interested candidates should apply through the official Chevening Fellowships portal. The application requires submitting a detailed research proposal outlining the candidate’s research goals and demonstrating their experience in energy market reform.
