A £50,000 scholarship designed to bridge the gap between scientific research and commercial leadership is now available for applicants of the Full-time MBA.
The Sainsbury Science Management Fellows scholarship, awarded by the business education charity Engineers and Scientists in Business Fellowship (ESBF), has officially added Durham to its roster of partner institutions for its Full-time MBA programme.
By combining Durham’s outstanding business education with the technical expertise of UK scientists, the initiative aims to bolster the UK’s ability to turn laboratory breakthroughs into high-growth commercial ventures.
The wider Sainsbury Management Fellows programme was established in 1987 by Lord Sainsbury of Turville. Initially focused on engineers, the programme was expanded to include scientists in 2024 to meet the growing demand for leadership in deep-tech and life sciences.
The programme has since proven highly successful, with more than 400 engineers graduating from leading international business schools. These Sainsbury Management Fellows have created over 300 companies worth nearly £5 billion and generated more than 21,000 jobs across the UK.
ESBF partners with the National Physical Laboratory to administer the scholarship award process for scientists.
Each year, up to eight scholarships of £50,000 are awarded to outstanding scientists who demonstrate leadership potential and a clear commitment to contributing to the UK economy.
Applicants must hold a first degree in a science discipline, be UK nationals currently residing in the UK, and be able to demonstrate a strong commitment to the country’s economic development.
Miranda Thomas, Executive Director of ESBF, said: "We are committed to supporting exceptional British scientists as they transition into the business world. Bringing Durham University Business School into our network is a fantastic development. Durham’s reputation for excellence and its strong links to industry make it an ideal environment for our Fellows to transform their technical expertise into impactful leadership."
Professor Amir Michael, Deputy Executive Dean at Durham University Business School, said: “Durham University Business School is committed to supporting the next generation of UK-based leaders who aspire to make a positive impact in their organisations, communities, and sectors. Our collaboration with ESBF will allow us to support talents from the wider British community of scientists, enabling them to write the next chapter in their leadership careers.”
Dr Richard Burguete, Director of the Postgraduate Institute at NPL and Programme Lead, said: “This scholarship is an incredible opportunity for those with an ability and passion for science to develop their talents and get to the next level, boosting vital skills which will enable them to drive innovation at the intersection of science and business that will improve lives across the UK and beyond.”
Applications for the scholarship open on 2 June, with the next deadline on 30 September.
Interested in applying for the scholarship or studying a Full-Time MBA? Learn more below.
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