The Senior Cancer Research Fellowship supports established independent group leaders to expand and solidify their own research programmes over six years, fostering their development into world-leading experts in cancer biology, prevention, or early detection.
Eligibility Criteria:
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Research Leadership:
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Hold a salaried independent position at a UK university or research institute (not concurrently core-funded by a CRUK Institute).
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Space and facilities to run an independent research group.
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Qualifications & Experience:
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PhD or MD in a cancer-relevant field.
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Extensive postdoctoral research track record.
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Demonstrated “transition to scientific leadership” competencies per CRUK’s Fellowship Competency Framework.
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Remit Exclusions:
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No interventional trials or drug discovery projects.
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Some host institutions may be ineligible—confirm before applying.
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Funding Details:
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Duration: 6 years (or pro-rata for part-time).
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Quantum: Typically up to £1.75 million total, covering:
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50% of the Fellow’s salary (tapered over the award).
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Salaries for up to two postdoctoral researchers, one technician, and one PhD student.
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Running expenses (consumables, travel, publication charges).
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Equipment up to £50 000.
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Relocation costs up to £1 000 (if changing institution).
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Annual salary supplement for the Fellow (up to £10 500 pa, pro-rata; not for CCT-qualified clinicians).
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Key Dates:
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Preliminary Submission (Outline): 2 October 2025
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Committee Review: December 2025
How to Apply & Further Information:
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Read Guidance: Review the “How to apply to this scheme” tab on the CRUK website and download the SCaRF Outline & Full Application Guidelines and Grant Conditions.
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Eligibility Enquiry (Optional): Submit your CV and Eligibility Enquiry Form to the CRUK office at least 1 month (no later than 2 weeks) before the outline deadline.
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Outline Application: Apply via Flexi-Grant; if shortlisted, you’ll be invited to submit a full application (with Host Institution approval).
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Interview: Shortlisted candidates present to an Expert Review Panel; final funding decisions by the Research Careers Committee.
Contacts ([email protected]):
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London (ex-Imperial/ICR), North East, Scotland & NI: Dr Catherine Cremona
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Cambridge, Oxford, South East & West: Dr Elisabetta Gamen
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Imperial/ICR, Midlands, North West & Wales: Dr Fran Smith