# Career Development Fellowship

**Funder:** Cancer Research UK
**Budget:** Typically up to £1.5m
**Deadline:** 10 September 2026 (Full application deadline; reviewed twice per year)
**Duration:** 6 years, or part-time equivalent
**Consortium:** No
**Frequency:** Annual
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/for-researchers/apply-for-and-manage-your-funding/our-funding-schemes/career-development-fellowship
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Supports new group leaders who do not have a salaried independent position to establish their independent research group in cancer research.

## Summary

The Cancer Research UK Career Development Fellowship funds early-career researchers establishing independent cancer research groups in the UK with up to £1.5 million over six years. This scheme targets researchers without a salaried independent position who are ready to lead their own laboratory. The call is reviewed twice per year, with applications evaluated in spring and autumn rounds.

## Who should apply

- Early-career researchers without a current salaried independent position
- Researchers based at UK institutions in academia or NHS
- Applicants with demonstrated expertise and track record in cancer research
- Scientists ready to lead their own independent research group

## Key dates

- Full application deadline 10 September 2026
- Reviewed twice yearly (spring and autumn rounds)
- Six-year project duration, or part-time equivalent

## Tips for applicants

- Demonstrate genuine independence from your supervisor or mentor; the panel assesses whether you are ready to lead, not follow.
- Frame your research within cancer science priorities; Cancer Research UK panels weight translational or clinical relevance alongside fundamental novelty.
- Include clear milestones for establishing your group (hiring, equipment, pilot data), reviewers want evidence of concrete independence planning.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much can I apply for in the Cancer Research UK Career Development Fellowship?

Up to £1.5 million over the six-year project period.

### Who is eligible for the Cancer Research UK Career Development Fellowship?

Early-career researchers in cancer research based at UK institutions who do not yet hold a salaried independent research position.

### How often can I apply to the Cancer Research UK Career Development Fellowship?

The fellowship is reviewed twice per year (spring and autumn rounds); applications can be submitted at either deadline.

### Can I apply if I'm currently outside the UK?

No, you must be based at a UK institution (academic or NHS) to be eligible for this fellowship.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/cancer-research-uk-career-development-fellowship-2026-09) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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