Future Leaders Fellowships: round 11
The UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships support early career researchers and innovators to lead ambitious, interdisciplinary research or innovation projects and develop leadership skills across all sectors.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: June 16, 2026 (Academic-hosted full application & diversity data) | November 4, 2026 (Non-academic-hosted full application)
Funding Amounts: No minimum or maximum; typical awards range from £300,000 to over £2 million for up to 7 years (4 years initial, 3-year renewal possible).
Summary: Supports early career researchers and innovators in the UK to establish independence and lead ambitious, impactful research or innovation.
Key Information: Application caps apply to academic hosts; diversity and inclusive selection data required from host organisations.
Description
The Future Leaders Fellowships (FLF) scheme aims to develop, attract, and retain outstanding research and innovation talent in the UK by providing long-term, flexible support to early career researchers and innovators. The scheme is open to those transitioning to or establishing independence, across the full UKRI remit, and supports interdisciplinary work, international collaboration, and leadership development. Fellows receive funding to establish their own research or innovation vision, build leadership skills, and pursue ambitious, high-impact projects that cross academic, business, and sectoral boundaries. The FLF supports both academic and non-academic applicants, with a strong emphasis on career development, inclusivity, and institutional support.
