CRUK Career Development Fellowship 2026: £1.5 Million Funding for Early-Stage Cancer Research Leaders — Apply by Feb 19

Cancer Research UK (CRUK) has announced the deadline for its prestigious Career Development Fellowship (CDF). This is a career-defining opportunity for outstanding early-career scientists to establish their own independent research group at a UK institution.

Selected fellows will receive up to £1.5 million over 6 years to cover their salary, research staff, and running costs. This fellowship is designed to support the transition from postdoctoral researcher to independent group leader. The deadline for the Full Application stage is February 19, 2026.

Fellowship Overview & Key Details

Research Focus Areas

The fellowship supports high-quality research that enhances our understanding of cancer biology. CRUK welcomes proposals in basic biological research, including but not limited to:

• Cancer Biology: Cell cycle, immunology, metabolism, and metastasis.
• Radiotherapy & Imaging: Optimizing treatment and developing new imaging technologies.
• Early Detection: Epidemiology, risk stratification, and biological research underpinning early diagnosis.

Note: Clinical trials and drug discovery are typically covered under different CRUK schemes.

Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is highly competitive. To apply, you must meet the following strict requirements:

• Experience: You typically have 3–8 years of postdoctoral experience and are ready to become independent.
• Status: You must not yet hold a salaried independent position (e.g., tenure-track).
• Host Institution: You must have the support of a UK university, medical school, or research institute that can provide you with laboratory space and facilities.
• Leadership Potential: You must demonstrate the potential to lead a research team and run an independent programme.

Fellowship Benefits

This is one of the most generous fellowships in the UK life sciences sector. Comprehensive Funding: The £1.5M grant covers your salary, salaries for key staff (e.g., a postdoc or technician), and research consumables. Equipment: You can request funds for essential equipment to set up your lab. Relocation: Allowances are often available for moving to the host institution. Development: Access to CRUK's vast network, mentorship, and leadership training programmes.

Application Process (Crucial Note)

The application for this fellowship follows a two-stage process:

1. Outline Application: Candidates usually submit a preliminary outline months in advance (often the previous Autumn).
2. Full Application (Current Deadline): Invited candidates must submit their full, detailed proposal by February 19, 2026.

Pro Tip for New Applicants: If you missed the outline stage for this round, keep an eye out for the next "Outline Application" window, which typically opens in Spring (March/April) for the next cycle.

How to Apply

Applications are managed through CRUK’s online grants management system, Flexi-Grant. Ensure you have your "Letter of Support" from your Head of Department ready.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for CRUK Career Development Fellowship