Loughborough is proud to lead the way – we currently have more UK Young Academy members than any other institution, and this year, we celebrated our first-ever Global Young Academy member.
What’s behind our success?
It starts with exceptional applicants and is supported by Enhanced Academic Practice’s (Organisational Development & Change) bespoke support package, which includes cross-disciplinary mentorship and tailored guidance to help you craft a standout application.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Nick Jennings said: “I’m a strong advocate of the Young Academies and wholeheartedly encourage colleagues and alumni who are emerging leaders to apply. These prestigious, interdisciplinary initiatives align closely with our University’s vision and values, offering a powerful opportunity for individuals from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise to collaborate, innovate, and drive meaningful change on today’s most pressing societal challenges.
“I also encourage colleagues to consider becoming mentors – your support can make a real difference in guiding our applicants through this exciting journey, while also enriching your own interdisciplinary connections across the University”.
Whether you’re considering applying or would like to support others as a mentor, we’d love to hear from you. Read on to learn more about each Academy, how to apply, and how to get involved.
For further information, please contact Dr Katryna Kalawsky.
UK Young Academy
What is the UK Young Academy?
Established in 2022, the UK Young Academy brings together professionals, innovators, clinicians, researchers, academics, and entrepreneurs from across the UK to tackle global issues. It is supported by prestigious national academies, including:
- The Academy of Medical Sciences
- The British Academy
- The Learned Society of Wales
- The Royal Academy of Engineering
- The Royal Irish Academy
- The Royal Society of Edinburgh
- The Royal Society.
As the 50th member of the global Young Academy movement, the UK Young Academy is a unique and influential initiative for interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation and impact.
Loughborough has a strong track record of success with more UK Young Academy members than any other institution:
- 2023: Four academics selected as founding members
- 2024: Two alumni joined the second cohort
- 2025: Two more academics selected for the third cohort
When do UK Young Academy applications open?
Applications for the fourth cohort of UK Young Academy members are now open and will close on 23 July 2025 at 3pm.
To apply, you need to:
- Be in the early stages of a professional career
- Have between 3-12 years of experience in your field
- Demonstrate a track record of excellence
- Reside in the UK (see the UK Young Academy’s website for full details)
Even if you’re not sure that you’ll meet all the criteria, the UK Young Academy still encourages individuals to apply. Those who have been on career breaks (including parental and adoptive leave or extended sick leave) will also be considered.
What does the UK Young Academy application involve?
Your application includes:
- Career history – showcasing your professional achievements
- Personal statement – highlighting leadership, innovation, interdisciplinary work, and international collaboration
- Vision and commitment – your aspirations for contributing towards the UK Young Academy (with a three-minute video)
You also need to provide contact details for two referees.
What is the membership commitment of the UK Young Academy?
Membership lasts five years with a minimal time commitment of 4-5 hours/month. However, the UK Young Academy will support and encourage members to contribute as much time as they are able to. Optional leadership opportunities will be available to members which may require additional time.
Global Young Academy
What is the Global Young Academy?
Founded in 2010, the Global Young Academy (GYA) is open to scholars in the early stages of their academic careers working independently in any research-based discipline. It connects and mobilises talent, fosters interdisciplinary dialogue, and addresses global societal challenges. Members are selected for their scientific excellence and societal engagement.
Earlier this year we were delighted to celebrate Loughborough’s first Global Young Academy member.
When do Global Young Academy applications open?
Applications for the Global Young Academy will open in July 2025 and the closing date is yet to be confirmed.
To apply you need to:
- Be in the early stages of an independent academic career
- Be 3-10 years post doctorate
- Provide evidence to demonstrate scientific excellence and commitment to engage with society
What does the Global Young Academy application involve?
In prior years, the application form requests basic biographical information and includes several short essay questions regarding:
- An applicant’s independence as a researcher
- The impact an applicant has made on society through their research and/or related activities
- A personal vision for improving research and the situation of young scholars worldwide
- A reflection of any obstacles that an applicant has overcome during their life/career and skill development.
- An applicant’s experience of interdisciplinary/international research.
In addition, Global Young Academy applicants are required to provide their CV, letter(s) of support, and a declaration document.
What is the membership commitment of the Global Young Academy?
Membership is expected to last for five years with a minimal time commitment of 4 hours/month. New Global Young Academy members are expected to be available to attend the Annual General Meeting (date and location to be confirmed).
Application Support for Young Academy Applicants
Enhanced Academic Practice is offering tailored support for a limited number of applicants to the UK and Global Young Academies. Support includes: ]
- Cross-disciplinary mentorship with feedback on written applications
- Training for the video submission (UK Young Academy only)
To express interest, complete this short internal form by 10am, 23 June 2025. Enhanced Academic Practice and Senior Management will lead a selection process to determine the suitability of prospective applicants, and who will be offered support towards their application.
Recognising societal and institutional barriers towards the career progression of those with protected characteristics, we strongly encourage colleagues from minority groups to apply for this opportunity.
Become a Young Academy Applicant Mentor
We’re seeking staff and alumni who want to make a real difference by mentoring applicants to the UK and Global Young Academies. If you’re passionate about developing others, we are keen to hear from you!
As a mentor, you’ll:
- Support up to two applicants
- Offer around three hours of guidance per mentee during June-July 2025.
- Share constructive feedback on written applications, and where possible, on the application videos.
To volunteer, please complete this short form by 10am, 23 June 2025, and inform your line manager. Your commitment will be shared with senior leadership to show your dedication to supporting colleagues.