The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) is offering a unique opportunity for early career researchers to conduct independent research and develop leadership skills through the 2025 BBSRC Fellowships Scheme.

The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) announces the 2025 BBSRC Fellowships Scheme, providing a unique opportunity for early career researchers to conduct independent research within a host laboratory and develop leadership skills. The scheme aims to invest in researchers on an upward trajectory towards working independently and becoming future research leaders.
OPPORTUNITY AT A GLANCE:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Eligibility | Early career researchers with a PhD or other higher qualification, or relevant employment experience |
Research Focus | Biotechnology and biological research in plants, microbes, animals, and humans |
Funding Duration | 3 years (full-time or part-time) |
Application Deadline | 7 May 2025, 4:00 PM (UK time) |
Research Start Date | No later than 1 July 2025 |
Host Organization | UK research organization eligible for BBSRC funding |
Application Process | Online application through the Funding Service |
Facts About the BBSRC
- Investing in Research Excellence: BBSRC invests over £500 million annually in research and training, supporting over 1,600 research projects.
- World-Leading Research: BBSRC-funded research has led to numerous breakthroughs, including the development of DNA sequencing and the discovery of the structure of DNA.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: BBSRC supports research that combines biology with other disciplines, such as physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
- Addressing Global Challenges: BBSRC-funded research focuses on addressing global challenges, including food security, sustainable energy, and human health.
- Supporting Early Career Researchers: BBSRC offers various funding opportunities for early career researchers, including the David Phillips Fellowships and the Future Leader Fellowships.
- Collaborations and Partnerships: BBSRC collaborates with other research councils, industry partners, and international organizations to advance research and its applications.
- Public Engagement and Outreach: BBSRC supports public engagement and outreach activities to promote the understanding and appreciation of bioscience research.
- Research Infrastructure: BBSRC invests in research infrastructure, including state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, to support world-class research.
- International Reputation: BBSRC has an international reputation for supporting high-quality research and has partnerships with research organizations worldwide.
- Shaping the Future of Bioscience: BBSRC plays a crucial role in shaping the future of bioscience research, supporting innovative and transformative research that addresses global challenges.
Eligibility For 2025 BBSRC Fellowships Scheme
- Open to early career researchers seeking to conduct independent research within a host laboratory.
- Applicants on an upward trajectory towards working independently and developing research leadership.
- Demonstrated research or innovation experience through a PhD or other higher qualification, or relevant employment within a research or innovation environment.
- No requirement to hold or be studying for a PhD.
- Must be based at a UK research organization eligible for BBSRC funding.
- Not eligible if holding/have held a post/position at lecturer level or equivalent outside a university.
Description For 2025 BBSRC Fellowships Scheme
The fellowship, funded by BBSRC, will last for three years, allowing researchers to work either full-time or part-time (pro rata). The scheme supports investigator-led research across the scientific remit of BBSRC, including biotechnology and biological research in plants, microbes, animals and humans, as well as tools and technology underpinning biological research. Multidisciplinary applications are encouraged, provided the primary focus aligns with BBSRC’s remit.
How To Apply For 2025 BBSRC Fellowships Scheme
- Visit the Funding Finder page and select “Start application.”
- Confirm your role as the fellow.
- Sign in or create a Funding Service account. If your organization is not listed, contact [email protected].
- Complete the application process on the Funding Service, ensuring all project partners contribute to the application.
- The lead research organization must submit the application to UKRI.
- Host organizations can provide guidance and advice.
- Application Deadline: 7 May 2025, 4:00 PM (UK time)
- Research Start Date: No later than 1 July 2025.
Source: https://www.ukri.org/