Are you a passionate early-career researcher in biotechnology and biological sciences? The 2025 BBSRC Fellowships Scheme, funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), offers an incredible opportunity to establish yourself as an independent researcher.
With a total funding of £9 million, this prestigious fellowship provides financial support, leadership training, and career development opportunities to help you make breakthrough discoveries in your field.
What is the BBSRC Fellowship?
The BBSRC Fellowship is a three-year research grant designed for early-career researchers and technical professionals looking to transition into independent research. Fellows will have the opportunity to conduct innovative research at a host laboratory while receiving funding to cover their salary, research expenses, travel, training, and visa costs.
With up to 80% of the full economic cost covered by BBSRC, this fellowship allows researchers to focus on advancing their scientific work without financial concerns.
Research Areas Supported by BBSRC Fellowship
The BBSRC Fellowship supports a broad range of research topics in biotechnology and biological sciences, including:
- Plants, microbes, animals, and human biology
- Development of innovative tools and technologies in biological sciences
- Data-driven discovery research
- Breakthrough advancements in biotechnology
Interdisciplinary research is highly encouraged, as long as the primary focus aligns with BBSRC’s research areas.
Key Benefits of the Fellowship
The 2025 BBSRC Fellowships Scheme provides multiple advantages for researchers looking to advance in their scientific careers:
- Independence in research – Conduct your own research within a host institution.
- Flexible work options – Choose between full-time or part-time research.
- Generous funding – Covers salary, research expenses, travel, training, and visa costs.
- Career development – Gain leadership experience, enhancing your prospects in academia and industry.
- Global Talent Visa sponsorship – International researchers can work in the UK under this visa route.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The BBSRC Fellowship is open to early-career researchers and technical professionals who aim to establish themselves as independent researchers. The key eligibility requirements include:
Must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for BBSRC funding.
Open to individuals with:
- A recently completed PhD or higher qualification.
- Relevant employment experience in research or innovation.
✔ No restrictions on postdoctoral or work experience years.
✔ Candidates currently holding or having held the following fellowships are also eligible: - Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions
- Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin Fellows
- Daphne Jackson Trust Fellows
✔ PhD candidates can apply if they expect to complete their viva before 30 November 2025.
Funding Details
- Grant Amount: No upper funding limit (80% of the full economic cost is covered).
- Duration: 3 years (extensions available for part-time researchers).
- Estimated Number of Fellowships: Approx. 15 awards available.
What the Fellowship Covers
- Salary and research expenses
- Travel, training, and visa costs
- Technical support for research activities
How to Apply?
Interested researchers can apply through the official UKRI website: Apply Here
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 7 May 2025, 4:00 PM (UK Time)
- Research Start Date: No later than 1 July 2025
The 2025 BBSRC Fellowships Scheme is an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers to gain financial support, research independence, and leadership skills in the field of biotechnology and biological sciences.
With flexible work options, visa sponsorship, and generous funding, this fellowship can pave the way for a successful career in academia or industry. If you are eager to take your research to the next level, don’t miss this opportunity—apply before 7 May 2025!
FAQ:
What is the BBSRC Fellowship 2025?
The BBSRC Fellowship 2025 is a three-year research grant for early-career researchers and technical professionals in biotechnology and biological sciences. It provides funding for salary, research expenses, travel, training, and visa costs, allowing researchers to conduct independent studies within a host institution.
Who is eligible to apply for the BBSRC Fellowship?
The fellowship is open to early-career researchers and technical professionals based at UK research organisations eligible for BBSRC funding. Applicants must have a recently completed PhD or relevant employment experience in research or innovation. There are no restrictions on postdoctoral or work experience years.
How much funding does the BBSRC Fellowship provide?
There is no upper funding limit. BBSRC covers up to 80% of the full economic cost, including salary, research expenses, travel, training, visa costs, and technical support for research activities.
What research areas does the BBSRC Fellowship support?
The fellowship supports research in biotechnology and biological sciences, including plants, microbes, animals, human biology, new tools and technologies, data-driven discovery research, and interdisciplinary studies that align with BBSRC’s focus areas.
Can international researchers apply for the BBSRC Fellowship?
Yes, international researchers can apply. The fellowship also offers Global Talent Visa sponsorship, allowing non-UK researchers to work in the UK under this scheme.
What is the application deadline for the BBSRC Fellowship 2025?
The application deadline is 7 May 2025, at 4:00 PM (UK time). Applicants must submit their proposals before this date to be considered for the fellowship.
When will the research start for selected fellows?
Research under the BBSRC Fellowship 2025 must start no later than 1 July 2025. Selected candidates should be prepared to begin their projects by this date.
How many fellowships will be awarded in 2025?
Approximately 15 fellowships will be awarded under the 2025 BBSRC Fellowship Scheme.
Can PhD candidates apply for the BBSRC Fellowship?
Yes, PhD candidates can apply if they expect to pass their viva before 30 November 2025.
Where can I apply for the BBSRC Fellowship?
Applicants can apply through the official UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) website at https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/2025-bbsrc-fellowships-scheme/.
