Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: October 21, 2026, 9:00am UK time (Opening) | January 13, 2027, 4:00pm UK time (Closing)
Funding Amounts: No request limit; salary and project costs for up to five years at 80% FEC, plus permitted exceptions
Summary: Supports clinically active researchers to establish their own research niche and team through protected research time, training and career development.
Key Information: Applicants must be registered healthcare professionals with a PhD or equivalent and an eligible UK host, transitioning towards independence.
Description
The Medical Research Council (MRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), offers this personal fellowship to help clinically active researchers make their first step-change towards research independence. It supports researchers with evidence of career consolidation and productivity who are ready to lead distinct research plans, establish their own niche and begin building a team. Protected research time is combined with an ambitious programme of training and personal career development.
Research must improve human health within MRC’s remit, from basic studies of disease mechanisms to translational and developmental clinical research. Areas include infections and immunity, molecular and cellular medicine, population and systems medicine, neurosciences and mental health, translation, global health, methodology and public health. Research periods overseas, at another UK organisation or in industry can support collaborative networks and cross-sector development.
