UK Research & Innovation - Future Leaders Fellowships
The next call for UKRIs FLF scheme will open on 2 Feb 2026.
This is UKRIs flagship fellowship scheme aimed at developing the next wave of world-class research and innovation leaders in academia and business. The funding provides long-term support to enable fellows to tackle ambitious programmes or multidisciplinary questions, and new or emerging research and innovation areas and partnerships. You should be an early career researcher who is either:
- looking to establish or transition to independence
- developing their own original and ambitious plans within a commercial setting
Exceptional scientists with a strong track record can apply for funding over four years, both to tackle ambitious and challenging research and innovation, and to develop their career. Funding can be extended for up to a further three years to support long-term focus on a particular area of research or innovation and continued career development.
The 2025 awardees webpages show what proposals have been previously awarded under this fellowship scheme
Natural Environment Research Council - Independent Research Fellowships
The next call for NERCs IRF scheme will open on 25 Feb 2026.
This scheme supports talented early career researchers to develop their independence and establish themselves as leaders in environmental science.
The call is open to early career researchers with a PhD (or significant relevant research experience combined with clear evidence of leadership potential) who want to conduct their own environmental research within an eligible host organisation.
NERC welcomes applications that span multiple research council areas, provided the primary focus falls within the NERC remit. Strong applicants will demonstrate convincing evidence of working towards this goal and a high potential to become independent research leaders in the future.
IRFs are five-year, full-time fellowships. Part-time (pro rata) may be possible to accommodate caring responsibilities.
The 2024 awardees webpages show what has previously been awarded under this fellowship scheme.
To apply:
RBGE can host these prestigious fellowships and is asking for an Expression of Interest form to be submitted to Michelle Wagner, Science Manager by noon on 9th March 2026.