APPLICATIONS OPEN: FUTURE LEADERS 2027
See the bigger picture. Shape what comes next
What does it take to lead in an increasingly interconnected world of science, technology and innovation?
The most effective leaders understand more than their own organisations or disciplines. They understand how decisions are made, how science informs policy, how innovation happens and how relationships across sectors can create opportunities for progress.
The Foundation for Science and Technology's Future Leaders Programme offers an exceptional opportunity to develop that understanding.
Established in 2019, the programme brings together 30 emerging leaders from across government, academia, industry and the wider research community for a distinctive 12-month experience of professional development, access and connection.
An experience that goes beyond traditional leadership development
Future Leaders offers opportunities that are difficult to replicate within a single organisation.
Participants benefit from:
- Access to extraordinary institutions. Go behind the scenes at leading research facilities, universities, industrial organisations and institutions at the heart of policymaking. Previous cohorts have visited UK Parliament, CERN, Rolls-Royce, the National Physical Laboratory and Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.
- A seat at the table. Join the Foundation's evening discussions and dinners, engaging directly with senior figures from science, technology, Parliament, government and industry.
- Leadership development and mentoring. Learn from experienced mentors, take part in fortnightly cohort conversations and explore leadership challenges alongside peers from different sectors.
- Opportunities to find your voice. Contribute to the Foundation's Big Questions webinar series, with further opportunities to publish in the FST Journal, appear on our podcast and help shape a conference.
- Connections that last. Build meaningful relationships with 29 other emerging leaders and become part of a wider professional network spanning science, technology, research and public policy.
The programme is shaped by each cohort, ensuring that its visits, discussions and development opportunities reflect participants' interests and ambitions.
An investment in your organisation's future leaders
Supporting a colleague to join the Future Leaders Programme is an investment in more than their individual development.
Participants gain a broader understanding of the UK's science, technology and innovation landscape, new perspectives on the challenges facing different sectors, and relationships that can open doors to future collaboration.
They return to their organisations with fresh ideas, stronger professional networks and greater confidence in engaging across institutional and sectoral boundaries.
For employers looking to develop people who can think strategically, build connections and work effectively beyond their immediate professional environment, Future Leaders offers a distinctive opportunity.
Who should apply?
We welcome applications from early- and mid-career professionals working across science, technology, research, innovation and public policy who are ready to broaden their perspectives and develop their leadership potential.
We particularly encourage applications from groups currently under-represented in science and technology leadership.
Join the 2027 cohort
30 places | 12 months | One exceptional network
The programme begins in early 2027 and combines institutional visits, mentoring, fortnightly virtual sessions and opportunities to participate in the Foundation's wider programme of events and activities.
The programme fee is £2,000 (+VAT) per participant for the full 12 months. Travel and accommodation are additional.
To support access, up to five partial scholarships covering 50% of the programme fee are available for applicants whose organisations would otherwise be unable to fund participation.
Applicants must have the support of their employing organisation, including agreement to provide the necessary time and funding.
Applications close: 5pm 14th December 2026
Apply here.
For further information, please contact alex.rhys@foundation.org.uk.
Take the next step
Discover what the Future Leaders Programme could offer you and your organisation.
Apply here.