The funds awarded through the LEADERS programme are aimed at Scottish Early Career Researchers (ECRs).
A LEADERS award is intended to allow ECRs to develop the skills and leadership qualities required to become
successful research professionals, be it in academia or industry. This programme is designed to allow ECRs to
access training courses, set aside time for grant writing and undertake placements or exchanges outwith their
normal work setting, as an integrated part of their research activities (as illustrated in Diagram 1). External
placements must include a period of at least one month in a commercial/industrial setting. A typical award
that includes all the training and exchanges will have duration of at least 12 months and can be up to 2 years.
Prior to applying for a LEADERS award, ECRs should conduct a review of their existing skills, identify their
training and development needs and develop a personal training and development plan that includes the
elements specified below