The Humane Research Trust is thrilled to announce the launch of a prestigious new Fellowship Award. The scheme will support an early career researcher who is using animal-free methods to advance human health.
The Humane Research Fellowship is the only UK fellowship which supports exclusively animal-free medical research. The 2025 scheme will enable a talented scientist to take the next step in their career. This will offer them the freedom to pioneer their own innovative, humane research.
Dr Luke Green, 2021-25 Humane Research Fellow said:
“Being awarded a Humane Research Fellowship has been transformative for me. It kickstarted my independent research group, providing me with the means to follow my own ideas.”
“Since starting my Fellowship, I’ve been able to build my lab and establish my identity as an independent researcher both nationally and internationally, and secure a permanent position at my institution.”
The winning candidate will lead their own research to understand or treat human disease. This work will involve developing, refining, or applying an animal-free research method, model, technique, or product.
Over five years, the Trust will provide up to £450,000 to support the Fellow. This will cover the Fellow’s salary, laboratory consumables, technician support, training, equipment, attendance at conferences, and publication costs.
The scheme is open to researchers based at a UK university or research institution. Applicants must demonstrate previous success leading impactful research projects and a personal commitment to using only animal-free research methods.
Dr Alison Giles, CEO of The Humane Research Trust, said:
“The Humane Research Fellowship embodies everything we stand for: compassion, innovation, and impact. This is how we build a future where science serves both people and animals.”
“The scheme will enable an exceptional researcher to drive innovation and establish themselves as a leader in their field. We’re excited to welcome the Fellow to join us in our mission to achieve a world where research is both effective and ethical.”
This news follows the Trust’s recent award of £1.05 million towards new animal-free research projects in areas ranging from vaccine development to cardiovascular health.
Stage 1 of the scheme opened for applications on September 8 2025, and will close on 21 December 2025. Individuals who are interested becoming a Humane Research Fellow should visit the Fellowship Award webpage to learn more.
