Wellcome Early-Career Awards
This scheme provides funding for early-career researchers from any discipline who are ready to develop their research identity. Through innovative projects, they will deliver shifts in understanding related to human life, health and wellbeing. By the end of the award, they will be ready to lead their own independent research programme.
Scheme at a glance
- Lead applicant career stage: Early-career researcher
- Administering organisation location: UK, Republic of Ireland, Low- or middle-income countries (apart from India and mainland China)
Location eligibility for this funding scheme is changing
From 29 October 2026, we will only accept applications from lead applicants based at eligible administering organisations in the UK and low- and middle-income countries in Africa, South Asia and South-east Asia.
- Frequency: Three times a year
- Funding amount: Your salary and up to £400,000 for research expenses. Certain costs do not count towards the £400,000 research expenses limit. Check ‘Research costs we’ll cover’ for more information.
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Funding duration: Usually 5 years, but may be less for some disciplines, and may only be longer if held on a part-time basis.
- Coapplicants: Not accepted
Additional Resources
- Review previous projects that have been successful for this scheme
Funded grants | Grant Funding | Wellcome - For more information, eligibility criteria, grant regulations, and conditions, please see our website
Early-Career Awards – Funding for Early-Career Researchers | Research Funding | Wellcome
