Who can apply

This scheme is for early career researchers and innovators who are either:

• are transitioning to or establishing independence
• may be developing their own original and ambitious plans within a commercial setting

You do not need to hold a PhD and there are no eligibility rules based on the number of years since your PhD. However, if you do not hold a PhD, you must be able to demonstrate equivalent research or innovation experience or training.

There are no eligibility rules based on whether you currently hold a permanent or open-ended academic position or job role.

To assess and justify your suitability, go to ‘supporting documents’ in the ‘additional info’ section and read the person specification annex in either the:

• guidance for academic-hosted applicants
• guidance for non-academic-hosted applicants

UKRI cannot confirm eligibility prior to submission.

The fellowship offers flexibility to support outstanding individuals:

• from diverse career backgrounds
• returning from a career break or returning to research or innovation following time in other roles
• wishing to work part-time or in job shares in order to combine the fellowship with personal responsibilities
• coming to the UK from abroad. Researchers and innovators are eligible for a Global Talent visa under the ‘exceptional promise’ category for future research leaders. They must have the support of their host organisation

For applicants based in academia, there is a fixed cap on the number of applicants who can apply. Full details are annexed in the guidance for applicants document. Please ensure you notify your host organisation of your intention to apply, and allow time for internal shortlisting processes.

Who is not eligible

Applicants who have already achieved research or innovation independence (for example, by securing funding aimed at this career stage, or by already managing their own significant programme of work within a business) should not apply.

Senior academics and innovators are not permitted to apply.