The RCP Sir Michael Perrin research scholarship

The RCP Sir Michael Perrin research scholarship will award up to £10,000 to a resident doctor for a 12-month research opportunity, aiming to foster early-stage academic engagement among individuals who may not yet be embedded in formal academic pathways.

Purpose

  • To encourage resident doctors to engage in meaningful, mentored medical/health services research
  • To encourage early-career doctors to become clinical academic
  • To promote diversity and accessibility in clinical academic careers
  • To support work that results in tangible research outputs.

Eligibility

  • Open to resident doctors in foundation years, integrated medical training or in a UK specialty training programme
  • Applicants not currently enrolled in an academic programme must demonstrate how they will allocate sufficient time to undertake the research (e.g through annual leave or flexible working arrangements)
  • Must have a host institution through which the funds will be administered, and which will support the recipient's research project
  • Must be a subscribing member of the RCP
  • Please note, applicants who hold, or are currently undertaking, a PhD or MD are not eligible, as they are already engaged in substantial research activity. The purpose of the programme is to provide a first meaningful research opportunity for those who have not yet entered that pathway.

Grant includes

  • The scholarship will provide up to £10,000 to the host institution to support the recipient’s research project
  • Up to £1,000 towards conference costs, travel and accommodation.
  • Public recognition and profile within RCP channels.

Acceptable costs include

  • Travel for data collection or collaboration
  • Research consumables
  • Access to specialist resources
  • Other project-related expenses.

Application requirements

  • Application form
  • Two-page CV
  • Brief letter of support from supervisor.

Applications open from Wednesday 12 August 2026. The application form will be available from this date.