About

Entries are now open for the Wellcome Career Development Awards to support mid-career researchers from any discipline who have the potential to be international research leaders.

The programme focuses on developing research capabilities, driving innovative programmes of work, delivering significant shifts in understanding, generating impactful contributions to specific research fields, and advancing methodologies, conceptual frameworks, tools, or techniques that benefit health-related research.

The funding duration is typically eight years, although it may be shorter for certain disciplines or extended if undertaken on a part-time basis. Applicants are encouraged to request the resources necessary for their research programme in coordination with their organisation, ensuring proper justification of costs. The annual funding amount is usually below £250,000, excluding the applicant’s salary, and requests exceeding this threshold will undergo additional scrutiny.

This award is designed for researchers who are ready to lead substantial and innovative research programmes while strengthening their leadership skills and contributing to a positive and inclusive research culture. During the award period, applicants are expected to enhance their research capabilities, support responsible research practices, and contribute to the training and development of future researchers. By the end of the award, they should achieve international recognition in their field and be well-positioned to secure permanent roles within research organisations.

Eligibility

Eligibility requires applicants to be mid-career researchers who are already leading their own research and have completed one or two substantial research periods following their initial training. They must have made significant contributions to their field and are likely to have experience in collaboration and guiding the work of others. 

Applicants may hold different types of contracts, including permanent, tenure-track, or fixed-term positions, with specific conditions determining whether salary support can be requested. Additional considerations apply for those with career breaks, part-time research experience, disciplinary changes, or those based in low- or middle-income countries. They are not eligible if they hold or have previously held an equivalent award at the same career stage, have a pending application for this scheme, or intend to transfer grant funds into mainland China.

Post Date: April 02, 2026