HDR UK-Wellcome Biomedical Vacation Scholarships in Health Data Research

We are now calling for host organisations to submit research projects for Summer 2023. Please complete the form below and we will be in touch:

Host organisation call

The HDR UK-Wellcome Biomedical Vacation Scholarship (BVS) programme is designed to support undergraduates, in the middle year(s) of quantitative degrees, to undertake health data research projects for the very first time.

Our programme offers a selection of exciting and highly challenging research projects hosted by organisations from across the UK which are to be carried out during the 2023 summer vacation. These will give insights into scientific research and the opportunity to work under leading UK academics and clinicians.

As the national institute for health data research we promote diversity among health data researchers. The HDR UK-Wellcome scheme prioritises those from socio-economic groups that are under-represented in health data science, including those attending non-Russell Group universities.

While at least half the seven available places will be allocated to people from under-represented groups, the programme is open to applicants of all backgrounds. You can find out more about eligibility, priority applicants and our approach to inclusivity here.

What the scholars say

“It’s certainly very challenging and very interesting. And because it’s research, no one knows the answers, so we have to figure it out as we go. It has given me really, really good experience and will be very helpful in helping me to decide whether or not I want to progress into research. Zhe Ren Ooi, UCL intern

Are the scholarships for you?

Applications are now closed.

If you are interested in applying for the 2023 programme, please register your interest below:

Sign up here

We are looking for applicants with an enthusiasm to learn how their mathematical and/or computational skills can be applied to biomedical and health care research problems.

We aim to recruit undergraduates who are studying relevant subjects including mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science or any course that involves a substantial component of quantitative study.

Applicants with pre-existing computer programming experience or are willing to commit to developing those abilities are especially welcome.

You can read more about who is eligible, whose application will be prioritised and the overall process in the inclusivity, eligibility and applicant information section.

Funding

Each scholarship provides a salary and research and travel expenses, specifically you will receive:

• the Real Living Wage, plus holiday pay and NI contributions
• up to £1,500 (or £2,000 if living in London) towards travel and accommodation if required
• up to £500 towards materials and equipment costs.

Students are eligible if they are in the middle year(s) of their degree and have not undertaken a substantial period of research.