About

The Wellcome is seeking applications for its Early-Career Awards to provide funding for early-career researchers from any discipline who are ready to develop their research identity.

The scheme focuses on advancing understanding in respective fields and/or developing methodologies, conceptual frameworks, tools or techniques that could benefit health-related research. 

During the award, researchers are expected to expand their technical skills and/or experience of different research methodologies or frameworks, build a collaborative network with other researchers in their field, develop their people management skills, and advance their understanding of how to complete research responsibly and promote a positive and inclusive culture.

The award provides a salary for the grantholder and up to £400,000 for research expenses. Additional costs not counted within this limit may include overheads, overseas allowances, adjustment support, and specific research-related expenses such as macaques purchased from the Centre for Macaques.

The funding covers salaries, staff costs, relocation allowances, professional development and training, consumables, equipment, travel, fieldwork, public engagement, and other essential research costs.

The Wellcome Early-Career Awards are designed for early-career researchers who have completed a PhD or possess equivalent research experience and are ready to design, plan, and deliver their own innovative research projects.

Successful applicants will demonstrate a good understanding of research methodology, evidence of project delivery and analysis, and the ability to work independently while developing new techniques and approaches. Applicants may have up to three years of postdoctoral experience, with allowances made for career breaks, part-time work, or changes in research discipline.

Eligibility

Eligible administering organisations must be not-for-profit institutions based in the UK, Republic of Ireland, or low- or middle-income countries (apart from India and mainland China). These can include higher education institutions, research institutes, or healthcare organisations.

Applicants should select a research environment that provides the training, resources, and mentorship necessary to deliver their project and develop their research identity. While moving away from the current research environment is encouraged, it is not mandatory.

Applications are assessed based on the research proposal, skills and experience of the applicant, and the quality of the research environment. Competitive proposals are expected to be bold, creative, and high-quality, demonstrating a significant shift in understanding or a substantial advance over existing methodologies or frameworks.

Reviewers will also evaluate the applicant’s research outputs, methodological skills, management potential, and how their research environment will support their growth and contribution to a positive and inclusive research culture.

The application deadline is 17 February 2026, 15:00 GMT.

Post Date: October 30, 2025