Cancer Research UK
Clinical Future Leaders Fellowship
Full application deadline; reviewed twice per year
Last updated:
The Clinical Future Leaders Fellowship supports clinician scientists in the UK to transition to research independence, with funding up to £2.5 million over seven years plus a salary contribution from the host organisation. Restricted to clinician scientists, the fellowship emphasises leadership development in cancer research, with years 5-7 subject to satisfactory progress at year 4. Cancer Research UK reviews applications twice annually.
Details
| Funder | Cancer Research UK |
| Budget | Typically up to £2.5m (plus host organisation salary contribution) |
| Deadline | 10 September 2026 |
| Duration | 7 years (years 5–7 subject to satisfactory progress at year 4) |
| Consortium | No |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Career stage | Early-career opportunity |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Supports clinician scientists to transition to research independence and leadership in cancer research. Restricted to clinician scientists; host organisation must contribute towards the fellow's salary.
Who Should Apply
- •Clinician scientists (medical or dental qualification plus research training)
- •Researchers based at UK host institutions
- •Applicants ready to transition from mentored postdoctoral or clinical research roles to research leadership
- •Cancer research focused projects
Key Dates
- •Full application deadline: 10 September 2026
- •Applications reviewed twice per year
- •Seven-year fellowship duration (years 5-7 contingent on year 4 progress review)
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Host institution salary contribution is mandatory, secure this commitment in writing before submitting.
- ✓The year 4 review gate is real; build detailed milestones and contingency plans into your research design.
- ✓Emphasise the clinical relevance and translation pathway; CRUK panels favour projects with clear patient benefit or clinical application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Clinical Future Leaders Fellowship award?
Up to £2.5 million over seven years, plus a salary contribution from the host organisation.
Who is eligible for the Clinical Future Leaders Fellowship?
Clinician scientists (holding a medical or dental qualification plus research training) based at a UK host institution.
How long is the Clinical Future Leaders Fellowship?
Seven years; however, years 5-7 are conditional on satisfactory progress at the year 4 review.
How often does Cancer Research UK review Clinical Future Leaders applications?
Applications are reviewed twice per year, with the next full application deadline on 10 September 2026.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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