An annual round of appointments to the Research Councils is organised by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS)
This round usually commences in October and takes place in two parts. BBSRC, EPSRC, MRC and STFC first, followed by AHRC, NERC and ESRC slightly later. This round may be supplemented by competitions for individual or groups of posts as necessary.
All appointments are initially for a period of up to four years; the maximum allowed by the Royal Charters of the Councils. Members are eligible for re-appointment for a further period of up to four years. Members of Council are part-time and are expected to spend some 20 days each year on Council business. An annual honorarium of £6,740 is paid to council members and £8,970 is paid to members who chair boards.
Current vacancies
There are currently vacancies for AHRC, BBSRC, EPSRC and STFC. Details of the vacancies can be found below. The closing date for all vacancies is 13 November 2009.
Application pack
Candidates Information
Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
Application For Research Council Membership 
(155 KB)
Role And Person Specification for AHRC Council Member Vacancies In 2010
(66 KB)
Timetable for Council Appointments 2010(28 KB)
Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
Application for Research Council Membership(151 KB)
Role And Person Specification for Member Vacancies 2010(59 KB)
Timetable and Information(40 KB)
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
Application for Research Council Membership(155 KB)
Role And Person Specification for Member Vacancy In 2010(48 KB)
Timetable and Information(41 KB)
Science and Technology Facilities Council
Application for Research Council Membership(157 KB)
Role And Person Specification for Member Vacancy In 2010(46 KB)
Timetable and Information
Your Application for a Public Appointment
(45 KB)
Your Guide to Making a Compliant about a Public Appointments Process
If you have any questions about the appointments contact Charles Langley, Science and Research Group, BIS, 1 Victoria Street, London SW1H 0ET, Tel 0207 215 1236.
Previous appointments
Press notices relating to previous appointments for council members can be found under related documents and external links.
