# Early Independence: BBSRC Fellowships

**Funder:** BBSRC
**Budget:** 80% FEC; no upper limit. ~15 grants to be awarded.
**Deadline:** 23 September 2026 (4:00pm UK time. Full stage only — applicants must have been shortlisted from the outline stage (OPP1203).)
**Duration:** 3 years
**Consortium:** No
**Application:** 2-stage: outline (OPP1203) → full stage (this call, by invitation/shortlist only)
**Frequency:** Annual
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/early-independence-bbsrc-fellowships-full-stage/
**Last verified:** 5 July 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Early independence fellowship for researchers seeking to establish their own research niche within BBSRC's bioscience remit. Open to any nationality but must be hosted at a UK research organisation eligible for BBSRC funding. No time-bound post-PhD eligibility criteria. Covers personal salary, consumables, travel, training, and technician support; no equipment purchases permitted. BBSRC funds 80% FEC.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/bbsrc-early-independence-bbsrc-fellowships-2026-09) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.