Are you a bold innovator or visionary researcher ready to take the leap into a world-class leadership role in your field? The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has launched Round 10 of the Future Leaders Fellowships (FLF) — offering up to £110 million in grants to support trailblazing individuals like you.
If you dream of leading cutting-edge research or innovation projects while developing a long-term, impactful career in the UK, this is your moment.
What is the Future Leaders Fellowship?
The FLF programme supports outstanding early-career talent across all sectors and disciplines, including science, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and the arts. Hosted by a UK-based organization — academic, business, or non-profit — fellows receive four years of core funding (with a possible three-year extension), career development support, and the flexibility to conduct bold, interdisciplinary work.
Fellowships are open to applicants globally. Whether you’re returning to academia, transitioning from industry, or working across sectors — the fellowship is designed with your unique path in mind.
Fellowship Funding Details
- Total fund pool: £110 million
- Grant request range: £100,000 to £3 million
- Project duration: Minimum 4 years (extendable to 7)
- Funding type: Grant-based
Depending on the nature of the project (industrial research or experimental development), businesses of different sizes can receive between 25% to 70% of eligible costs. Academic institutions (via Je-S) may receive up to 80% of full economic cost, while RTOs and charities can get 100% of eligible costs.
Who Can Apply?
- International applicants are welcome with a UK host organisation.
- No PhD required! Applicants must demonstrate equivalent expertise or innovation experience.
- UK-based businesses, charities, Catapults, Agri-Tech centres, and eligible academic institutions may act as host organisations.
- Project partners can include UK-registered companies, public bodies, and non-profits.
- Non-UK collaborators are allowed (non-funded), and visiting researchers are welcomed for up to 12 months.
This fellowship also supports job shares, part-time roles, and applicants returning from career breaks — ensuring flexibility and inclusivity.
Application Dates
The Future Leaders Fellowships Round 10 competition officially opens on 23 June 2025. An online briefing event will be held on 26 June 2025 at 10:00 AM (UK time) to guide applicants through the process. The deadline to submit applications is 5 November 2025 at 11:00 AM (UK time).
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, which are scheduled to begin on 11 May 2026 and conclude by 31 May 2026. Funding decisions will be announced on 31 July 2026, and the earliest possible project start date is set for 1 October 2026.