Cancer Research UK
Senior Cancer Research Fellowship
Full application deadline; reviewed twice per year
Last verified:
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.
Details
| Funder | Cancer Research UK |
| Budget | Typically up to £1.75m |
| Deadline | 10 September 2026 |
| Duration | 6 years, or part-time equivalent |
| Consortium | No |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Eligible countries | GB |
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.
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.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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