Funding for researchers of Black, Bangladeshi and Pakistani heritage in the UK to undertake activities that put them in a stronger position to reach their next career stage within academia. The funding can be used for research or research-adjacent activities, including but not limited to:
- developing a novel research idea, pilot, proof-of-concept, or scoping study and gathering related preliminary data
- taking up research skills training opportunities or other appropriate courses
- writing and (co-)authoring papers, books, articles or funding applications
- research time at another research institution in the UK or abroad
- secondment opportunities for areas allied to research (for example, the pharmaceutical industry or non-governmental organisations)
- planning meetings of collaborative networks or conferences
The Wellcome Trust funds research in any academic discipline providing it is aimed at improving human life, health and wellbeing (see Wellcome’s Discovery Research remit).
ELIGIBILITY
The lead applicant must:
- Self-identify as being from a:
- Black heritage background, including a mixed heritage background. For example, Black African; Black Caribbean; Black Other; Mixed background (must include Black African, Black Caribbean or other Black backgrounds).
- Bangladeshi heritage background, including a mixed heritage background. For example, Bangladeshi Other; Mixed background (must include Bangladeshi backgrounds).
- Pakistani heritage background, including a mixed heritage background. For example, Pakistani Other; Mixed background (must include Pakistani backgrounds).
- Currently be working in or ordinarily resident in the UK.
- Have completed a substantive period of research training relevant to their discipline by the time they submit the application. This means you must fit at least one of the following:
- you have completed a PhD (for example, in the life sciences) or an equivalent higher research degree
- if you are currently studying for a PhD, you must have passed your viva examination by the application deadline
- if you have not started a PhD or equivalent degree, you must have at least four years’ equivalent research experience (for example, in the humanities and social sciences)
- Have been awarded an undergraduate degree at a UK institution or a PhD at a UK institution.
If you hold your first permanent, open-ended or long-term rolling contract, you must have been appointed within the last three years unless, during this time, you:
- spent time away from research due to personal circumstances (for example, for a career break, parental leave, long-term sick leave or a chronic illness)
- worked part-time and research was not part of the role (for example if you have been employed as a healthcare professional)
- worked part-time and your cumulative research time is less than three years
You must be currently working in or ordinarily resident in the UK. Your administering organisation must be in the UK. The grant cannot be held at an organisation outside the UK at any time.
Any nationality is eligible, as long as you meet the conditions outlined above for the lead applicant.
VALUE AND DURATION
This scheme covers salary costs and up to £200,000 for project expenses for up to two years.
KEY DATES
Information webinar: 2 June 2026 (register here)
Deadline: 25 August 2026
Shortlisting: October 2026
Final decisions: December 2026
More information, including a sample application form, can be found on the opportunity webpage and in the below documents.