Wellcome Early-Career Awards
Wellcome
About
Support for mid-career researchers developing ambitious independent programmes related to human life, health and wellbeing. The award develops research leadership and capabilities while supporting creative work intended to produce substantial advances in understanding.
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Eligibility
Covers: Applicant salary where eligible and justified research expenses, usually for eight years. Annual expenditure is usually below GBP 250,000 excluding applicant salary; larger requests receive additional scrutiny, so this is not a fixed award maximum.
Through 28 October 2026 at midnight GMT: eligible administering organisations in the UK, Republic of Ireland, or low- and middle-income countries other than India and mainland China. From 29 October 2026: eligible administering organisations in the UK and low- and middle-income countries in Africa, South Asia and South-East Asia; consult Wellcome’s definitive country list. Host organisations must be not-for-profit higher-education institutions, research institutes or healthcare organisations.
Mid-career researchers with the potential for international research leadership must meet Wellcome’s experience, appointment and organisational requirements. Applicants need a sponsor and mentor and must normally contribute at least 80% of research time. Applicants whose three-year permanent-post limit falls between 28 July and 17 November 2026 remain eligible through 17 November under the stated transition.
Source: wellcome.org