Designed to address the UK’s growing need for skilled health data scientists, the BVS provides undergraduates in the middle years of eligible degree programmes with real-world experience of tackling biomedical and healthcare challenges using data-driven approaches. 

The programme is open to students from all backgrounds but as part of Health Data Research UK’s (HDR UK) commitment to widening participation, it prioritises applicants from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and those studying at non-Russell Group universities – groups that remain underrepresented in health data science. 

A paid opportunity to build skills and confidence 

Successful applicants will take part in a paid placement during summer 2026, earning at least the real Living Wage, alongside a travel and accommodation bursary.   

Students will work on meaningful research projects hosted by institutions across the UK, including the Universities of Nottingham and Sheffield, University College London and NIHR Exeter Biomedical Research Centre. Work opportunities will be available in person as well as hybrid and flexible formats, depending on the host organisation. 

Throughout the placement, students will receive structured mentorship from experienced researchers, clinicians and data scientists, as well as access to HDR UK’s training and development resources to support both technical learning and personal growth. 

Shaping future careers in health data science 

Previous successful BVS applicants say that the programme strengthened their confidence, clarified their career ambitions, and inspired them to pursue further study, including master’s degrees and PhDs. By offering early exposure to real-world research environments, the BVS enables students to explore whether a future in health data science is right for them. 

As well as developing technical skills in areas such as research methods, coding and data analysis, students also benefit from joining a national network of research organisations, gaining insight into the breadth of health data science opportunities available across the UK. 

Christopher Yau, Director, HDRUK-Turing Wellcome PhD Programme in Health Data Science, Co-Lead for the Capacity Building Programme at HDR UK, said: “This will be the final cohort of Health Data Research UK Biomedical Vacation Scholarships, and I am excited to see a wider and more diverse programme of research activities and participants than before. These scholarships have enabled undergraduates to gain a first taste of research and have enabled many to go on to develop their own research careers.” 

 

Who can apply? 

The BVS scheme is open to undergraduate students in the middle years of eligible degree programmes, particularly those doing degrees with a quantitative, computational, biomedical or health and care focus. HDR UK especially encourages applications from: 

  • Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds 
  • Students studying at non-Russell Group universities 

The programme remains open to all eligible applicants, with selection based on potential, motivation and fit with available projects. 

Key dates and how to apply 

  • Application deadline: 23:45 on 19 February 2026 
  • Placement period: Summer 2026 

Students can explore all available projects and submit their application via the application link on the HDR UK website. Applicants are encouraged to apply early and take time to review the wide range of projects on offer. 

For questions or further information, students can contact the team at learn@hdruk.ac.uk 

Find out more and submit your application now.