The Foundation Future Leaders programme is organised by the Foundation for Science and Technology, and each year brings together a cohort of around 35 mid-career professionals over the course of a year, with approximately one third of representatives drawn from each of the research community, industry, and the civil service and wider public sector.

Over the next 12 months, the group will meet senior figures from government, parliament, universities, large industry, SMEs, research charities and others, to enhance their knowledge of the wider UK science and technology ecosystem. Just as importantly, Future Leaders present their own expertise, develop new skills and make future contacts. The programme includes external visits and the development of an annual conference for a wider group of mid-career future leaders in science, technology, research and innovation.

The selected candidates are drawn from a wide range of organisations and will bring a diverse range of experiences and expertise to our newest Foundation Future Leaders programme.

AIRTO is pleased to be supporting the Foundation Future Leaders again in 2026.

The selected candidates are drawn from a wide range of organisations and will bring a diverse range of experiences and expertise. The list of selected candidates for 2026 Foundation Future Leaders, which includes some AIRTO member organisation representatives may be found at: https://www.foundation.org.uk/Future-Leaders/Foundation-Future-Leaders-2026