The Wellcome Early-career Awards offer funding to early-career researchers from any discipline to help them develop their independent research identity. The programme supports projects that advance understanding in specific fields or develop new methodologies, conceptual frameworks, tools or techniques that could benefit health-related research.
Aim of the Awards
The awards aim to empower early-career researchers who are ready to design, plan, and execute their own innovative research projects.
Through this scheme, researchers can expand their technical skills, build collaborative networks, develop leadership and people management capabilities and deepen their understanding of responsible research practices.
Funding details
Each award provides a salary for the grantholder and up to £400,000 for research-related expenses.
Additional funding may cover overheads, overseas allowances, adjustment support and specific project-related costs. The award also supports salaries, staff costs, relocation allowances, professional development and training, consumables, equipment, travel, fieldwork, public engagement and other essential research needs.
Eligibility
Applications are open to:
● Early-career researchers who have completed a PhD or have equivalent research experience
● Researchers with up to three years of postdoctoral experience (allowances made for career breaks, part-time work, or changes in research discipline)
● Applicants based in the UK, Republic of Ireland or low- or middle-income countries (excluding India and mainland China)
● Administering organisations that are not-for-profit institutions located in the UK, Republic of Ireland, or low- or middle-income countries
Requirements
Applicants must submit a research proposal, CV and details of their research environment.
The proposal should demonstrate a solid understanding of research methodology, evidence of project delivery and analysis, and the ability to work independently while developing new approaches or techniques.
Selection criteria
Applications will be assessed based on the strength of the research proposal, the applicant’s skills and experience, and the quality of the research environment.
Competitive proposals should be bold, creative and of high quality, showing potential to significantly advance understanding or introduce new methodologies and frameworks.
Deadline
The application closing date is 17 February 2026. Visit the Wellcome website to apply.
Discover research awards and grants around the world on our Opportunities page.
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