NIHR Developing Research Leader Programme

This three-year programme provides a valuable opportunity for participants to advance their research careers and contribute to the future of healthcare research leadership. The opportunity includes access to leadership development, networking events, mentoring and peer support.

Provider: National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)
Start date: 1st September 2026
Course length: 2 days a week for 3 years
Delivery mode: Self-directed and research-based learning with online support.
Cost: Funded 
Application closing date: 21st April 2026

To be eligible for the DRL programme, applicants must:

• Be a nurse, midwife or AHP in England – see the NHS England list of AHP roles
• Meet the employment criteria listed on this page
• Have employer support to participate in the programme for two days per week for three years

For any queries about the programme, please contact drl@nihr.ac.uk.

Click here to find out more and apply →