Scholarship Summary:
Funding: Partial Funding
Host Universities: UK Universities Funded by Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
Level: Fellowship
Subjects to study: Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences
Eligible Nationalities: International Students
Host Country: UK
Application Deadline: 07 May 2025
Description
Are you an early-career researcher or research technical professional looking to advance your career in biotechnology and biological sciences? The 2025 BBSRC Fellowships scheme, offered by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) in the UK, is now open for applications. With a total fund of £9 million, this prestigious fellowship provides financial support for three years, covering 80% of the full economic cost of your research. Whether you hold a PhD or are nearing completion, or if you have relevant research experience, this opportunity is designed to help you transition into an independent research leader. Applications are open from 4 February 2025 until 7 May 2025, so mark your calendars and prepare to take the next step in your academic journey at a UK research organisation.
What is the BBSRC Fellowships Scheme?
The BBSRC Fellowships scheme is a flagship initiative aimed at supporting early-career researchers and technical professionals in developing their leadership skills and conducting independent research. The program is open to individuals who demonstrate a strong trajectory toward becoming future research leaders in fields such as plant biology, microbiology, animal and human sciences, and biotechnology. Whether you are based at a UK university or another eligible research institution, this fellowship offers a platform to advance your career while contributing to groundbreaking scientific discoveries.
Degree Level
BBSRC UK Fellowships 2025 is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at UK Universities.
Benefits
- Financial Support: BBSRC will fund 80% of the full economic cost of your research, with no upper limit on the grant value. This includes support for personal salary, travel, training, research consumables, and visa costs if required.
- Career Development: The fellowship is designed to help you transition into an independent research leader, offering opportunities for leadership training, mentorship, and professional development.
- Flexibility: Fellowships can be held on a full-time or part-time basis (minimum 0.5 FTE), allowing you to balance personal commitments with your research career.
- Global Talent Visa: International applicants who require a visa to work in the UK are eligible for the Global Talent visa under the ‘exceptional promise’ category, making it easier to relocate and contribute to the UK’s research ecosystem.
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants from all nationalities are welcome, provided the fellowship is hosted in the UK. If you are currently completing a PhD, you must have passed your viva by 30 November 2025 to be eligible.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2025 BBSRC Fellowships, you must:
- Be an early-career researcher or research technical professional with relevant experience.
- Demonstrate an upward trajectory toward independent research leadership.
- Be based at a UK research organisation eligible for BBSRC funding.
- Not hold or have held a position at lecturer level or equivalent, or any competitive fellowship that grants independent researcher status.
Application Procedure
Applications must be submitted through the UKRI Funding Service by 4:00 pm UK time on 7 May 2025. The application process requires you to outline your research vision, approach, and career development goals, as well as demonstrate the support provided by your host institution. Key sections of the application include:
- Vision: Describe the impact and significance of your proposed research.
- Approach: Detail your methodology, project plan, and risk management strategies.
- Career Development: Explain how the fellowship aligns with your career aspirations.
- Host Organisation Support: Highlight the resources and mentorship provided by your host institution.
Why Apply for the BBSRC Fellowship?
The BBSRC Fellowship is more than just a funding opportunity; it’s a chance to establish yourself as a leader in your field. With access to world-class facilities, mentorship, and a supportive research environment, you’ll be well-equipped to make significant contributions to biotechnology and biological sciences. Whether you’re exploring data-driven discoveries or developing innovative technologies, this fellowship offers the resources and recognition you need to succeed.
Don’t miss this chance to advance your research career in the UK. Start preparing your application today and take the first step toward becoming a future research leader. For more details, visit the BBSRC website.
Link: https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/2025-bbsrc-fellowships-scheme/
