Closing date:
9 December 2026 at 1pm
Who can apply?
Applied health, social care and public health researchers who have demonstrated a strong career trajectory and are on course to become outstanding research leaders.
The programme is designed for outstanding academics progressing towards research leadership at professorial level and supports the development of future leaders who can promote the effective translation of research.
Available in:
England
Funding available:
Up to £2 million over five years.
The award can include:
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The applicant's basic salary costs.
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Up to three full-time equivalent support posts.
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Research running costs.
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A travel fund.
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Access to NIHR's Future Focused Leadership Programme.
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The opportunity to request a sabbatical.
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Indirect costs for the contracting organisation, where applicable.
Additional information:
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The Research Professorship is a five-year award designed to strengthen research leadership at the highest academic levels.
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The programme supports applied health, social care and public health research.
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Award holders are expected to lead high-quality research and promote the effective translation of research into health and care.
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The award provides protected time and resources to enable successful applicants to develop their research programme and leadership.
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The Research Professorship funding opportunity opens annually, usually in September.
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Cohort 17 opened on 23 September 2026.
How to apply:
Applications for Research Professorships (Cohort 17) should be submitted through the relevant NIHR funding opportunity by 1pm on 9 December 2026. Applicants should review the full eligibility requirements, assessment criteria and application guidance before applying.