Our senior research fellowships are for people who want to specialise in Parkinson’s research by establishing their own independent research group.
Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition. Our senior research fellowships awards are designed to recognise future leaders of Parkinson’s research, and provide them with funds to set up their own project teams as they develop their careers.
Applicants should have a strong track record of original and productive research in their area, and be able to demonstrate the progress they’ve made in moving towards independence.
Our fellowships are initially for three years and for up to £300,000.
Senior research fellowship award holders can formally apply for a further 2 years of funding at least 6 months before the end of the initial award.
Funding can cover:
Grants are tenable only at a UK university, NHS Trust, statutory social care organisation or other UK research institution.
Researchers who hold tenure are not eligible to apply as a principal applicant.
Preproposal deadline: 2 July 2025
Full application deadline: 8 October 2025 (for invited applicants only)
We actively encourage people from all sections of the community to apply for grants, regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. Read the charity’s equality, diversity and inclusion strategy.
To find out more about our senior research fellowships, please visit our website or contact us at researchapplications@parkinsons.org.uk
Flexibility and balance
We understand that different people choose different career paths, so we want to provide flexible research career opportunities. If you’re funded by us, you can request flexible and part-time working. We always try to accommodate requests, as long as they fit in with the needs of employing organisations.
Learning and development
The funding for the fellowship can include well justified costs for training opportunities such as attendance at relevant conferences or short courses.
Culture of support
Parkinson’s UK also supports awarded fellows in working with people affected by Parkinson’s and also provides opportunities to work with the media to help build their profile.
We consider the needs of everyone who applies for a grant at Parkinson’s UK. If you have a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition, are neurodivergent, or have care responsibilities and need support at any point during the application process, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help. You can email researchapplications@parkinsons.org.uk
