Transform Your Career with UKRI’s Fully Funded Future Leaders Fellowships

Kickstart Your Research Career with the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships

The Future Leaders Fellowships (FLF) program is an exceptional opportunity for early career researchers and innovators in the UK. Hosted by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), this initiative provides substantial funding and flexibility, helping ambitious individuals transition into independent research or innovation roles. Whether you're an academic researcher or an industry innovator, the fellowship supports you in making significant contributions to your field.

If you are looking to develop groundbreaking ideas—particularly in a commercial or research setting—this fellowship could be the stepping stone to achieving your goals. Read on to learn about eligibility criteria, program details, funding, and the application process.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply?

Early career researchers and innovators looking to establish their independence.
Individuals transitioning from academia to industry or vice versa.
Those working in a commercial or industrial research environment with original and ambitious plans.

Host Organisation Requirements

Applicants must be based at a UK-based organisation eligible for UKRI funding. Eligible institutions include:

Academic institutions registered for UKRI funding.
Non-academic organisations eligible for UK government subsidies, such as private research institutions or businesses engaged in research and innovation.

Before applying, ensure your host institution is eligible. Academic applicants must apply via the UKRI Funding Service, while non-academic applicants must use the Innovation Funding Service.

Position Type and Exclusions

There are no restrictions based on contract type (permanent or temporary).
Applicants should be in the process of establishing their independent research or innovation career.
Not eligible if you have already achieved research/innovation independence, hold senior academic or industry positions, or manage large-scale research projects.

Program Details

Fellowship Duration

The fellowship is initially awarded for up to four years.
An additional three-year extension is possible for outstanding projects requiring further funding.

Funding Support

There is no fixed minimum or maximum funding limit.
The fellowship covers salary, research expenses, training, and project costs.

Who Can Benefit?

Researchers and innovators from various backgrounds, including those returning after a career break.
Individuals working part-time or in job-share arrangements.
International applicants eligible for the Global Talent visa under the “exceptional promise” category.

UKRI strongly supports equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups.

Application Process

Applying for the Future Leaders Fellowships requires careful planning. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process:

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, including host organisation requirements.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

Develop a compelling research or innovation proposal.
Outline career development goals and how the fellowship will support them.
Gather necessary supporting documents.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Academic applicants: Apply via the UKRI Funding Service.
Non-academic applicants: Apply via the Innovation Funding Service.
Ensure your host organisation is aligned with your application and supports your proposal.

Step 4: Meet Key Deadlines

Opening Date: 3 February 2025, 9:00 AM (UK time)
Closing Date: 4 April 2025, 4:00 PM (UK time)

Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

Why Apply for the Future Leaders Fellowships?

Fully funded opportunity for early career researchers and innovators.
Flexible funding and project structure, allowing independence and creativity.
Supports diverse applicants, including part-time researchers and international candidates.
Pathway to career advancement, with the potential for an extended fellowship or further funding opportunities.

This fellowship is a fantastic opportunity to gain financial backing, mentorship, and industry recognition as you advance in your career.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Scholarship at Uniplus Global to apply