How to apply

There are two stages to the application process.

Stage 1: Recruitment of Forward North Academy cohort of health professionals

Deadline: 9am on Monday, 28 September 2026

In this stage, around 20 health professionals will be selected based on their CV and a short vision statement.

Once selected, the 20 health professionals are asked to work up a cutting-edge PhD proposal with support from their main supervisor. The Academy Directors will also advise and guide them on building a project culminating in an application to Stage 2.

How to apply for Stage 1

To apply in the first instance, please complete a Stage 1 application form, which includes sections for you to provide structured CV information and a vision statement.

We are looking for applicants who demonstrate a clear commitment to building a clinical academic career based on their achievements and outputs, and who have a vision for how a Forward North funded PhD fellowship will support their ambitions to become a senior clinical academic.

• Read the Forward North Guidance for Stage 1 Applicants (Word).
• Download and complete the Forward North Stage 1 Application Form (Word).

Please save your completed application form as a PDF before submitting it to us by email to forwardnorth@manchester.ac.uk.

• Please also complete the Forward North EDI survey.

If you are successful in your application for Stage 1, you’ll be invited to apply for Stage 2.