NIHR Rising Research Leaders Prize

Award to recognise outstanding rising research leaders who are at early to mid-career level and who are particularly dedicated to advancing the mission of the NIHR. 

Established in 2006 and primarily funded by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funds health and care research in the UK.

The Rising Research Leaders Prize (NIHR20) is a career development opportunity designed to promote early to mid-level researchers who are NIHR Academy members and have gone above and beyond to advance the mission of the NIHR. 

To be considered for the award, candidates must be able to demonstrate:

• A steep career trajectory.
• Innovative ways of delivering research impact.
• Excellence in research inclusion.
• Ability to form effective  new partnerships and collaborations.

A total of 20 leaders will receive prizes in 2026.