Springboard Awards support newly independent basic biomedical scientists with research funding, professional development and mentoring to help them establish independent research careers.
Funder: Wellcome Trust
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (Institution applications) | April 2027 (Internal triage) | June 2027 (Nominated applications)
Funding Amounts: Up to £125,000 over two years, plus mentoring and career support
Summary: Springboard supports newly independent basic biomedical scientists with research funding and professional support to develop independent research careers.
Key Information: Applicants must secure nomination from an eligible UK higher education institution; each institution may nominate up to four applications per round.
Springboard Awards are a collaboration between the Academy of Medical Sciences and Wellcome Trust, supporting basic biomedical scientists as they establish independent research careers. The Academy administers the scheme, combining funding for research and professional development with mentoring and career support. It is aimed at newly independent researchers in salaried academic posts who do not already hold significant research funding.
Awards provide practical resources for research activity, including equipment, research assistance and expenses, alongside travel for meetings and collaborations. The scheme forms part of the Academy’s work to make the UK the best place in the world to pursue a career in medical sciences.