Closing date:
24 November 2026 at 1pm
Who can apply?
Registered senior clinicians and senior practitioners who have already been awarded a PhD or MD.
Applications are prioritised from Allied Health Professionals, nurses and midwives, healthcare scientists, pharmacists, general practitioners and dentists. Applications are also encouraged from individuals who are typically underrepresented in research, including those working in community, local authority, primary care and public health settings.
Awards must be based within an NHS organisation, local authority, Higher Education Institution or other organisation delivering health and care services in England.
Available in:
England
Funding available:
Up to three years of funding to enable successful applicants to undertake research alongside career development activities at postdoctoral level.
Additional information:
-
Allied Health Professionals are specifically identified as a priority profession for this award.
-
Applicants must already hold a PhD or MD. Those holding a Professional Doctorate should contact NIHR before applying to confirm eligibility.
-
NIHR particularly encourages applications from professions and backgrounds that are underrepresented in research.
-
Applicants can develop research skills and experience across a range of areas. NIHR has also identified several strategic themes of particular interest for Cohort 4, including prevention, work and health, dementia and other priority areas.
-
A webinar about the award and changes for Cohort 4 will take place on 19 October 2026, 3–4pm.
-
Successful awards are expected to begin between 1 May and 1 September 2027.
-
This opportunity follows a single-stage application process.
How to apply:
Applications should be submitted through the NIHR Awards Management System by 1pm on 24 November 2026. Applicants should review the full eligibility criteria and application guidance before submitting.