Applications are now open for the next round of this scheme – closing date 11th January 2027.
Summary
The CSO NHS Researcher Development Fellowship is an introductory fellowship aimed at NHS employees currently working as a nurse, midwife, allied health professional, pharmacist, paramedic, healthcare scientist, or other in a clinical role to enable them to explore research as part of their existing NHS role.
The fellowship can be used in a versatile way with three pathways for the various stages of research experience.
The First Steps Award provides a realistic introduction to research by participating in a research study and receiving mentorship and support regarding the next steps. For candidates who already have some research experience, the Pre-Doctoral Award can be used as a way to develop additional skills and in some cases the time and mentorship to develop a competitive PhD fellowship application. For those who have completed a PhD, or Clinical / Professional Doctorate, the Transition Award provides time to undertake activities that support progression to the next stage of a research career. Examples of acceptable activities for each pathway can be found in the guidance document linked below.
The fellowship scheme also provides an opportunity for currently active and experienced NHS researchers to engage as mentors and support health professionals in this role to develop and experience research.
Details of previously funded Researcher Development Fellowships are available on our Funded Research page and our Testimonials page shares the benefits and experiences of past fellows.
Funding
First Steps & Pre-Doctoral Awards: funding for 13 days of time which can be used flexibly within a 1 year period from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2028.
Transition Award: funding for 26 days of time which can be used flexibly within a 1 year period from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2028.
Guidance
For more information about the fellowship please read the guidance document carefully
Mentors
Support to identify a mentor can be provided through the NHS Research Scotland Network and Specialty groups
Networks and Specialty Group | NHS Research Scotland | NHS Research Scotland
Allied health professionals can also contact the Council for Allied Health Professions Research Scotland (CAHPR Scotland) for help.
How to Apply
The application deadline is Midday on Monday 11th January 2027. Interviews for all pathways of the scheme are anticipated to take place online in March 2027.
Candidates should submit an application using the new CSO Grants Management System. You will need to make an account before you will be able to apply.
The application forms will be available on the application portal.
As there are several pathways, please ensure you select the correct application form:
- First Steps Application Form: https://cso.flexigrant.com/startapplication.aspx?id=17788
- Pre-Doctoral Application Form: https://cso.flexigrant.com/startapplication.aspx?id=17791
- Transition Application Form: https://cso.flexigrant.com/startapplication.aspx?id=17327
Please note that the application will need to be completed in collaboration with your identified mentor and your current line manager, instructions on how to do this will be available on the application form.
If you have any questions about the scheme please email the CSO Fellowships Team