The momentum for one of the UK’s most prestigious research funding opportunities is building again — and ambitious early-career researchers worldwide should take note. The University of Bath has officially launched its internal selection process for UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships (FLF) Round 11, seeking outstanding candidates who want to accelerate their journey toward becoming influential research or innovation leaders.
This newly released announcement, published on 4 December 2025, signals the beginning of a competitive and high-impact opportunity for researchers ready to establish an independent research portfolio and position themselves at the forefront of global scholarship.
What This Opportunity Is About?
The UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships are personal, high-value academic awards designed to nurture the next generation of leading researchers and innovators. Fellows receive structured support to build their research identity, expand their academic leadership, and generate real-world impact.
FLFs are open across all UKRI research councils — spanning STEM, social sciences, arts and humanities, health, environment, and innovation fields. Each fellowship lasts up to four years, with the possibility of a three-year renewal, making this one of the most stable and flexible early-career funding routes in the UK.
For Round 11, researchers interested in basing their fellowship at the University of Bath — a globally respected research-intensive institution — are now invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EoI).
Who Can Apply?
FLFs are designed for early career researchers who have the potential and ambition to become global research leaders. Applicants may already be working at the University of Bath or may intend to relocate from another institution, within or outside the UK.
UKRI has not yet announced major eligibility updates for Round 11, but the criteria are expected to align with Round 10 guidance. Key expectations include:
- A strong academic track record
- Evidence of accelerated career development
- Potential for leadership, innovation, and high-impact research
- A transformative research proposal capable of influencing the field
Candidates from all disciplines aligned with UKRI’s remit are encouraged to apply.
The last date to submit your Expression of Interest (EoI) for the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships (FLF) Round 11 at the University of Bath is Wednesday, 28 January 2026, at 1:00 pm (UK time). Only applicants who submit their EoI by this deadline will be considered for the university’s internal selection process before final applications are forwarded to UKRI for the June 2026 deadline.
Why This Matters for Global Researchers?
For scholars aiming to transition from promising early-career researcher to independent, internationally recognised research leader, the FLF is one of the most strategic pathways available.
With a combination of long-term funding, institutional support, leadership development, and flexibility across disciplines, Round 11 represents a rare and powerful opportunity — especially for candidates who secure endorsement from a world-class university like Bath.