# Pre-doctoral Research Bursary

**Funder:** Cancer Research UK
**Budget:** Up to £25k
**Deadline:** 24 September 2026 (Reviewed twice per year)
**Duration:** Up to 12 months
**Consortium:** No
**Frequency:** Annual
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/for-researchers/apply-for-and-manage-your-funding/our-funding-schemes/predoctoral-research-bursary
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Short-term funding for clinicians and other health professionals to get involved in research projects early in their career. Restricted to clinicians and health professionals; early-career focus.

## Summary

Cancer Research UK's Pre-doctoral Research Bursary funds up to £25,000 over 12 months for clinicians and health professionals early in their careers to engage in cancer research projects. This call targets medical doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and other clinical staff in UK institutions seeking to develop research skills alongside clinical practice. The bursary reviews applications twice yearly, making it accessible for researchers with flexible timelines.

## Who should apply

- Clinicians and health professionals early in their career
- Medical doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals
- Applicants based at UK research institutions
- Cancer research projects that bridge clinical practice and investigation

## Key dates

- Deadline 24 September 2026 (reviewed twice yearly)
- Up to 12-month project duration

## Tips for applicants

- Frame your research within your clinical role, Cancer Research UK values projects that embed learning into existing service delivery.
- Keep the scope focused; reviewers favour realistic 12-month timelines over ambitious multi-year plans squeezed into a single year.
- A named senior oncology mentor strengthens applications; include a brief supporting letter from your supervisor or host researcher.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does the Cancer Research UK Pre-doctoral Bursary pay?

Up to £25,000 per project.

### Who is eligible for the Pre-doctoral Research Bursary?

Clinicians and other health professionals early in their careers based at UK institutions.

### How long is the Pre-doctoral Research Bursary?

Up to 12 months.

### How often does Cancer Research UK review Pre-doctoral Bursary applications?

Twice per year, allowing flexibility in application timing.

---

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

**See which EU calls match your profile.** [Preview your matches in 30 seconds, no signup](https://grantsby.eu/demo?ref=llm_grant_md).