The University of Birmingham, UK, has launched a global search for 50 postdocs, mainly in science, engineering and maths. The university is offering five-year fellowships leading to permanent academic posts, providing the stability sought by many young researchers. It is initially investing between £3.5 million (US$5.7 million) and £5 million in the scheme. Applicants must have achieved a PhD in the past seven years; postdocs will earn about £37,000 annually. “Our vision is to reinvigorate research while creating a cohort of outstanding people that identify with this university,” says Adam Tickell, pro-vice-chancellor for research. Tickell adds that if the programme receives many qualified applicants, funding will be available to hire more than the initial 50. The first round of applications closes on 1 September.