من نحن

The Wellcome Early-Career Awards (ECA) 2026 support outstanding early-career researchers from any discipline who are ready to establish an independent research identity and lead innovative research projects that advance understanding of human life, health, and wellbeing. The programme aims to foster original, ambitious research across a broad range of fields contributing to these themes. Funding covers the applicant’s salary and provides up to £400,000 for eligible research expenses, with certain costs exempt from this funding cap. Awards are typically provided for a period of up to five years, with flexibility depending on the research discipline and part-time working arrangements. Projects may include independent and original research activities that contribute to new knowledge and understanding in areas related to health, wellbeing, and human life. The programme supports researchers based at eligible not-for-profit host organisations in the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, and eligible low- and middle-income countries, subject to Wellcome’s organisational eligibility requirements and forthcoming geographic eligibility changes.

معايير القبول

Applicants must have completed a PhD or equivalent higher research degree, or demonstrate at least four years of research experience equivalent to a PhD, and must be able to show evidence of conducting independent and original research. The scheme is intended for researchers with no more than three years of postdoctoral experience, unless mitigating circumstances apply. Applicants must be able to dedicate at least 80% of their research time to the proposed project. Host organisations must be not-for-profit institutions that are eligible to administer Wellcome funding and provide an appropriate research environment. Currently, eligible host organisations may be located in the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, or eligible low- and middle-income countries (excluding India and mainland China). From 29 October 2026, organisational eligibility will be restricted to institutions based in the United Kingdom and eligible low- and middle-income countries in Africa, South Asia, and South-East Asia. Applications will be assessed on the applicant’s potential to develop an independent research career, the originality and quality of the proposed research, and the suitability of the host organisation to support successful project delivery.

Post Date: September 22, 2026