Wellcome Early-Career Awards 2026 for researchers in low- or middle-income countries in the UK, Ireland & developing countries. Apply below.
Application Deadline:
- 28 July 2026 (15:00 BST)
Tell Me About The Award Programme.
The Wellcome Career Development Award is a prestigious funding scheme for mid‑career researchers across disciplines who are ready to lead substantial and innovative programmes of work. The award supports researchers in developing leadership skills, training the next generation, and delivering breakthroughs in understanding human life, health, and well-being.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Research can be in:
- STEM disciplines
- Experimental Medicine
- Humanities & Social Sciences
- Clinical & Allied Health Sciences
- Public Health
Type:
- International Research Award | Mid‑Career | Long‑term Funding
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be mid‑career researchers already driving their own research.
- Have completed 1–2 substantial periods of research after initial training.
- Made important contributions to their field.
- Be able to dedicate at least 80% of their time to the award.
- Health professionals must have completed clinical training and be licensed.
Special cases include:
- Applicants with permanent contracts (salary eligibility depends on location).
- Those returning from career breaks, parental leave, or changing disciplines.
How are applicants selected?
Assessment weightings:
- Research Proposal (50%) – bold, creative, high‑quality, with potential for significant impact.
- Skills & Experience (25%) – outputs, leadership, contributions to research culture.
- Research Environment (25%) – alignment with host organisation’s strategy, support for leadership development, inclusive culture.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- UK, Republic of Ireland, and low‑ or middle‑income countries (except India and mainland China).
- From 29 October 2026, eligibility will be restricted to the UK and LMICs in Africa, South Asia, and South‑East Asia.
Where will the award be taken?
- At eligible administering organisations (universities, research institutes, healthcare organisations).
How Many Awards?
- Multiple awards offered annually (three rounds per year).
What is the benefit of the award programme?
- Funding for up to 8 years (part‑time possible).
- Salary support (depending on contract type and location).
- Research expenses including:
- Staff salaries (up to 4 FTE).
- Materials, consumables, equipment, and access charges.
- Visa/work permit costs.
- Disability‑related adjustment support.
- Professional development and training.
- Annual expenditure usually below £250,000 (excluding salary).
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Up to 8 years (shorter for some disciplines).
Required Documents:
- Full application via Wellcome portal.
- Research proposal.
- CV and track record.
- Institutional support confirmation.
How to Apply:
- Prepare research proposal and documents.
- Apply via Wellcome’s online portal.
- Submit before 28 July 2026 (15:00 BST).
- Applications reviewed through peer‑review and interview processes.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
