The expansion represents a significant milestone for the programme, opening up new opportunities for talented UK scientists to access world-class business education while strengthening Scotland’s role in developing commercially minded scientific leaders.
It aims to help scientists turn cutting-edge research and innovation into successful businesses and commercial ventures, bolstering the UK’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The wider Sainsbury Management Fellows scholarship programme was founded in 1987 by Lord Sainsbury of Turville, who believed that equipping engineers with business skills would help them establish high-tech ventures and rise to leadership positions in major UK companies.
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.
The scheme was widened to scientists in 2024 in a bid to help the UK further build on its success and leading reputation in scientific research. It is hoped the scholarship will help scientists to elevate their research to drive change and innovation and position themselves for a career in leadership across a wider range of impactful industries.
ESBF partners with the National Physical Laboratory to administer the scholarship award process.
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.
We support exceptional young British scientists, and I’m delighted that we can now offer them a home in Scotland. Situated at the heart of Edinburgh and the wider Scottish enterprise ecosystem, the University of Edinburgh Business School offers our Fellows access to industry alongside an excellent business education, transforming their individual knowledge, skills, and leadership potential. Collectively, we’re excited to see how our Fellows then help drive innovation-led economic growth. We look forward to welcoming them into our vibrant and growing alumni community.Miranda Thomas, Executive Director of ESBF
We are delighted to be the first Business School in Scotland to work with ESBF and the Sainsbury Science Management Fellows Scholarship. The best of science needs to work seamlessly with the best of management so that innovation can make meaningful contributions to both the economy and society. Our exceptional MBA programme will provide the perfect platform for science professionals to implement and commercialise their dynamic discoveries and innovations.Julian Rawel, Director of MBA Programmes at the University of Edinburgh Business School
This is a tremendous opportunity that empowers scientists to realise their ambitions by combining their talent and passion for science with development of business acumen, helping to improve lives and drive growth across the UK.Dr Richard Burguete, Director of the Postgraduate Institute at NPL and Programme Lead for the scholarship
Including Edinburgh, the scholarship is now available at eight UK business schools. Applications are currently open, with the deadline approaching on 30 April.