The first step is to identify the right funding agency well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure to identify potential sources of funding well in advance of the application date. Many grants are recurring and are advertised, interviewed and awarded at the same time each year. Timing your application As a rule of thumb, preparation of applications for training fellowships should commence at least three months and Clinician Scientist fellowships at least six months before the closing date. Placing your application Speak to a senior member of staff to get the best advice over where to place your application. Different agencies fund different types of research or have certain requirements or exclusions. There is little point in submitting an application to an organisation unless there is a reasonable chance of success. For example, the Wellcome Trust rarely supports cancer projects and the Chief Scientist Office rarely supports proposals including animal research. This article was published on 2024-02-06