It is with great enthusiasm that we announce the opening of the Wellcome Early-Career Awards – Researchers from LMICs (up to £400,000), a promising opportunity for talented young researchers in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Cape Verde. This Wellcome Trust initiative aims to support early-career researchers, enabling them to develop independent and innovative lines of research in the field of health and wellbeing. Funding is provided for projects that tackle some of the most pressing health issues, spanning a wide range of scientific disciplines.
This grant represents a crucial milestone for the development of scientific careers in Cape Verde. By providing substantial funding of up to £400,000, the Wellcome Early-Career Awards enable researchers to establish their own teams, acquire essential equipment and carry out cutting-edge research over a significant period. The trust placed in individual researchers is a distinctive feature of this programme, promoting greater autonomy and responsibility in the conduct of research.
Eligibility for this programme is rigorous but fair. It is aimed at individuals who have already demonstrated strong research potential and who are at a stage where they need support to transition to an independent leadership role. It is essential that applicants submit robust, clearly defined research proposals, with a realistic work plan and the potential to have a significant impact on improving health in LMICs. The funding structure covers the costs of staff, equipment, materials and travel, ensuring that projects can be carried out successfully.
The experience gained through the application process and, hopefully, the receipt of this award will have a transformative impact not only on the individual careers of researchers, but also on Cape Verde’s scientific ecosystem. We strongly encourage all eligible researchers to explore this unique opportunity. The diversity of areas covered by Wellcome means that a wide range of health research can be funded, from basic research into infectious diseases to clinical and public health research.
Applications for the Wellcome Early-Career Awards – LMIC Researchers (up to £400,000) are open until 21 July 2026. For further information on eligibility criteria, areas of focus and the application process, please visit: https://wellcome.org/grant-funding/schemes/early-career-awards
