# Senior Cancer Research Fellowship

**Funder:** Cancer Research UK
**Budget:** Typically up to £1.75m
**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/senior-cancer-research-fellowship
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Supports group leaders to develop their research programme and build reputation as world-leaders in cancer research. Eligibility criteria changed: no longer accepting new outline applications from clinicians following the May 2026 committee review.

## Summary

Cancer Research UK's Senior Cancer Research Fellowship funds established group leaders to advance their cancer research programme and build international reputation, typically offering up to £1.75 million over six years. Open to researchers across the UK, the fellowship supports both part-time and full-time arrangements, though as of May 2026 clinicians can no longer submit new outline applications. Applications are reviewed twice annually with flexible timing to suit researcher circumstances.

## Who should apply

- Established research group leaders with demonstrated independent track record
- Researchers based at UK academic or hospital institutions
- Cancer research across fundamental, translational and clinical domains (except new clinician applications post-May 2026)
- Applicants aiming to develop programme depth and establish international research leadership

## Key dates

- Next deadline 10 September 2026; reviewed twice annually thereafter
- Full application stage (outline applications no longer accepted from clinicians as of May 2026)
- Six-year funding duration, available part-time or full-time

## Tips for applicants

- Clinician-scientists: the May 2026 policy change closed new outline applications from the clinical track, if you meet clinical criteria, contact Cancer Research UK directly to confirm eligibility before investing application time.
- Frame your case as programme leadership and international reputation-building, not incremental project funding; panels assess how this fellowship cements your standing in the field.
- The twice-yearly review cycle means flexibility, plan your submission timing around your research milestones and institutional calendar.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does the Cancer Research UK Senior Cancer Research Fellowship fund?

Typically up to £1.75 million over six years per fellowship.

### Can clinicians apply to the Senior Cancer Research Fellowship?

As of May 2026, Cancer Research UK no longer accepts new outline applications from clinicians; fundamental and translational researchers remain eligible.

### How long is the Senior Cancer Research Fellowship?

Six years full-time, or the part-time equivalent, allowing flexible arrangements.

### Who is eligible for the Senior Cancer Research Fellowship?

Established research group leaders based at UK academic or hospital institutions working in cancer research.

### How often are Senior Cancer Research Fellowship applications reviewed?

Twice per year, giving applicants flexibility in submission timing.

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

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