Early independence: career development fellowship
Fellowship for postdoctoral researchers to establish independent research teams in biomedical and health sciences within the MRC remit.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: September 15, 2026 (Full application, 4:00pm UK time)
Funding Amounts: Up to 5 years’ support; 80% of full economic cost (FEC) covered; no set upper limit—amounts must be fully justified.
Summary: Fellowship for postdoctoral researchers to establish research independence and build a team within the MRC remit to improve human health.
Description
This fellowship supports talented researchers who have completed a PhD (or equivalent) and demonstrated career consolidation and productivity, enabling them to establish their own research niche and begin building a research team. The award is designed to provide protected research time, funding for ambitious projects in medical research, and opportunities for training and career development. Research areas covered include basic biomedical science, translational and clinical research, infections and immunity, molecular and cellular medicine, neurosciences, population health, and related fields—all within the Medical Research Council (MRC) remit to improve human health.
The fellowship provides salary support, project costs, and resources for training and collaboration, aiming to foster the next generation of independent research leaders in the UK.
