The Health Data Research UK-Wellcome Biomedical Vacation Scholarship provides undergraduates in the middle years of their studies with hands-on experience of health data science-based research during the summer vacation period, with the aim of encouraging them to consider a career in research.

This year, we are collaborating with the University of Nottingham, University of Sheffield, University College London and the NIHR Exeter Biomedical Research Centre. Full programme details, including the projects on offer, information on eligibility and the application process can be found on our website. However, keep reading for some key highlights of what's on offer:

Throughout the internship, you will receive:

• Salary paid at a minimum of the real Living Wage (£13.45/hour), plus holiday pay and National Insurance contributions

• Up to £2,500 travel and accommodation bursary

• £500 towards the cost of research project delivery and training

• Mentorship from host organisation

• Access to HDR UK Futures learning platform

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Studying towards an undergraduate degree in an eligible subject. Examples of these include: mathematics, science (including biomedical, natural, computing or physical sciences), engineering, medicine and health and care professions (e.g. nursing, pharmacy and allied health).

• Be enrolled at a UK or Irish university

• In the middle year(s) of your degree

• Interested in health data research

• International students that meet above criteria are welcome to apply

Prioritising applications from underrepresented communities 

This programme is designed to open doors for those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds who may otherwise not have access to these opportunities. 

Whilst anyone can apply, if you meet the minimum criteria and come from a priority group as outlined below, we will prioritise your application for review by host organisations. All priority groups are treated equally and if you fulfil one or multiple of the criteria, your application will be prioritised in the same way. Full details on each priority group can be found in the FAQs. Please select all that apply.

If you select the 'prefer not to say' option, we will not be able to prioritise your application for review regardless of whether you are from a priority group.

• First-generation university student

• Recipient of free meals at school 

• The occupation of your main household earner at aged 14 is that associated with being from a lower socio-economic background 

• Care experienced

Application window closes 19 February 2026, 11:45pm GMT

If you have any questions about the programme or application process, including the provision of reasonable adjustments to complete your application, please reach out to us at learn@hdruk.ac.uk.