UKRI supports around 350 new fellows each year, with more than 2,000 fellows across the UK, and the fellowships provide funding to build new skills, take on new challenges and make career transitions.

The new framework will aim to more clearly set out distinct, outcome-focused fellowship types, as well as reducing the complexity and administrative burden on applicants.

Following the changes, every fellowship will have a clearly defined purpose, with UKRI councils still able to launch fellowship opportunities as required by their individual needs.

The new framework will be applied from late 2025, including those managed by UKRI councils, and existing fellowship schemes will come in line with the changes when the next associated funding opportunity opens.

Where long-term investments with multiple fellowship intakes have been carried out, UKRI said the framework will only apply once new investment is made. The framework will not be applied retrospectively.