The Kennedy Trust and the Medical Research Council (MRC) will co-fund two new Daphne Jackson Fellowships in rheumatology research, aimed at supporting individuals wishing to return to research after a career break.

Dr Stephen Simpson, CEO of the Kennedy Trust, said:

“We are proud to continue our support of the Daphne Jackson fellowship programme. The fellowships offer the opportunity to return to a career in research and ensure vital talent is not lost.”

Daphne Jackson Fellowships

Daphne Jackson Fellowships offer the opportunity for individuals to return to research following a break of at least two years due to family, caring or health reasons.  They uniquely combine a challenging research project with a personalised programme of retraining and mentorship. Through access to the Trust’s tailored support, including dedicated Fellowship Advisors, they enable fellows to regain the confidence and skills to re-launch their research career. The programme ensures that valuable skills, talent, training and career promise are not lost.

The fellowships will fund researchers part-time (0.5 FTE) for three years.

How to apply

Applications are open now. Fellowships can be held at any UK university or research establishment to carry out research into any clinical or pre-clinical subject with clear relevance to rheumatic or related musculoskeletal, immunological or inflammatory diseases. Full details of the application process are on the Daphne Jackson Trust website.

Closing date for applications is Monday 16th November 2026.

The Daphne Jackson Trust will shortlist the applications, followed by an internal selection process carried out by the Kennedy Trust to identify the preferred candidates.