ECR Fellowships

These fellowships are for individual researchers. Applicants from groups which are underrepresented in science are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants must:

• Not have made the transition to independence yet
• Be currently employed at a research centre or institution in the UK
• Not have a permanent contract at their host institution
• Be committed to joining at least two of the MHP Hubs with this award

Applicants could be: 

• A clinical, non-clinical or lived-experience ECR
• A current member of one of the funded MHP Hubs OR carrying out research at an institution not currently associated with one of the MHP Hubs.

Funded projects must focus on SMI research, and must link together at least two MHP Hubs. More information about research carried out at each hub can be found below.

Applications must name co-supervisors from at least two Hubs, with one designated as the lead co-supervisor. 

The project must include Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE), as the MHP is committed to meaningful involvement of people with lived experience (PWLE) of SMI in all aspects of our work. We advise applicants to involve PWLE in the development of their research plans. The application must also provide an overview of the project’s potential impact and outcomes for people with SMI.

Applications must also demonstrate a consideration of EDI principles during the research design phase, ensuring the project reflects the diversity of the population affected by the condition(s).

Projects involving matched-funding, or an industrial partner, are encouraged. 

Network opportunities

This fellowship is a unique opportunity to join a network of international researchers right at the start of a new initiative, and to bring new ideas to under-researched areas of SMI. The six Hubs across the UK offer world-leading expertise and the potential to collaborate with a range of disciplines.

During the project, you will be a crucial link between the Hubs and any external partners you work with, building collaboration across the MHP. You will champion the MHP’s collaborative and data sharing efforts, with the goal of accelerating research and improving outcomes for people with SMI.

Development opportunities

To support ECRs part of this fellowship, you will have the opportunity to access:

• Academic, PPI&E and industry guidance
• Training and support for PPI&E
• Interdisciplinary focused training
• Support for communication and dissemination of results
• Workshops and networking events hosted by the Hubs and the MHP
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Funding opportunities 

The funding provided will be 80% of the full economic costs of the proposal. Eligible costs include: 

• Salary of the main applicant 
• Costs of the research, including consumables
• Training and travel expenses 
• PPI&E expenses 
• Conference attendance
• Indirect costs and estates costs 

Applications should comprise the following (pages refers to A4, font size 11):

• Covering letter: <2 pages
• CV and publications: <3 pages 
• Research Plan, including research impact assessment: <4 pages
• Training Plan: <1 page
• PPI&E Plan: <1 page
• Budget for research, training and PPIE plans
• Letter of support from Host Institution: <2 pages

Download the application form at the bottom of the page

Applications will be reviewed by a Review Committee composed of the MHP leadership team and PPI&E members, with additional members as required.

There is no peer review comments stage for this award, and so the submitted application is final. 

We encourage potential applicants to approach the MHP Coordinating team (mhp@ed.ac.uk)  in advance of applying, who can advise on eligibility, and help to identify Hub co-supervisors, potential collaborators and partners, if needed.