The Vanguard programme
A selective programme that develops the leadership capabilities a scientific career rarely teaches, alongside peers, mentors and partners who share the ambition.
What members receive
A leadership curriculum
Structured learning across the seven capabilities of scientific leadership, taught by practitioners.
Mentors from across the field
Guidance from leaders in research, industry and investment, and from more experienced members.
Real projects
Challenges set by industry and venture partners, so members build leadership experience with their name on it.
A network that lasts
University chapters, an online community and regular gatherings with peers who share the ambition to lead.
A platform for your work
Opportunities to share research and ideas with a global audience, through Society events and a science platform followed by more than three million people.
A record of achievement
A verified record of demonstrated outcomes across the seven capabilities, recognised by partners and peers.
Seven capabilities of scientific leadership
Each is developed through practice, not only taught, and each is measured by what members achieve.
- Scientific & Technical MasteryDeep expertise, proven in research or in industry. The foundation, not the ceiling.
- Communication & InfluenceMaking science understood and acted on, by any audience, at any scale.
- Commercial ThinkingUnderstanding markets, customers and how a discovery becomes a product.
- Capital LiteracyKnowing how research and innovation are funded, and speaking the language of those who fund them.
- Leadership & TeamsBuilding and leading teams that achieve more than any individual could.
- Production, Marketing & ArtCreating the work that carries an idea: the presentation, the film, the brand, the campaign.
- Strategic Vision & ActionSeeing the opportunity early, and having the conviction to act on it.
How it works
- Register interest
Hear first when applications for the founding cohort open.
- Apply
Tell us about your work, your achievements and what you intend to build.
- Develop
Join the curriculum, meet your mentors and connect with your chapter.
- Lead
Take on real projects with partners, and support those who follow.
Events
The annual summit
Members, partners and speakers from across research, industry and investment, together in person.
Masterclasses
Sessions with practitioners on one capability at a time, and open discussion of real decisions and real deals.
Chapter events
Talks, open events and meet-ups at universities and research institutes.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply?
Scientists and engineers at any career stage, from doctoral students to senior industry leaders, in any field and any country.
Do I need to be working on a company?
No. Members lead in research, in industry, in public life and in companies. What matters is the intention to take their work further.
How much time does it take?
The programme is designed to fit alongside a demanding role or doctorate, with most activity online and a small number of in-person events each year.
Is there a fee?
Membership is by application, with an annual fee that includes a reduced rate for students. Fees will be published when applications open.
When does it start?
The founding cohort begins in the 2026/27 academic year. Register your interest to be told first when applications open.
How is Vanguard Science funded?
Through membership and through partnerships with organisations that share our aims. Partners never influence admission, assessment or what we publish.
The founding cohort
Vanguard Science welcomes its founding cohort in 2026/27. Register your interest to hear first when applications open.