Early independence: clinician scientist fellowship
UK Research and Innovation's Early Independence: Clinician Scientist Fellowship supports clinical researchers to launch independent research careers in medical science focused on improving human health.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: September 2, 2026: Full application submission deadline (closing date)
Funding Amounts: Up to 5 years' support; covers salary, project costs, and small team; no set upper limit, but all costs must be justified; typically 80% of full economic cost (FEC) funded.
Summary: Fellowship for clinically active researchers to establish research independence and build a research team within the MRC remit of improving human health.
Key Information: Applications must be submitted via the UKRI Funding Service by 16:00 UK time on the deadline.
Description
This fellowship supports talented, clinically active researchers who have completed a PhD (or equivalent) and demonstrated career consolidation to transition to research independence. The award provides protected time for ambitious research, career development, and training, enabling healthcare professionals to establish their own research niche, start building a team, and develop collaborative networks. The scheme covers a broad range of medical research areas, from basic biomedical science to translational and public health research, all within the Medical Research Council (MRC) remit of improving human health.
