Bioinformatics Core Leaders UK (BCLUK): Enabling Leadership, Mentorship, and Funding Pathways for RTPs

This project envisions a UK bioinformatics dRTP community in which individuals at all career stages have equitable access to leadership opportunities, mentorship, and funding pathways. Through the collective strength of the newly formed BCLUK network, the initiative aims to catalyse systemic change that better recognises dRTPs as essential contributors to research innovation and infrastructure.

A central component of this vision is reducing structural barriers that limit progression, particularly for early-career professionals and those from underrepresented backgrounds. BCLUK is linked with the DisCouRSE-funded PeerLadder programme via ELIXIR-UK, allowing relevant expertise in empowering underrepresented dRTPs to be leveraged into this project.

By creating structured opportunities for engagement with established leaders, the workshop will build confidence, share practical strategies, and increase awareness of leadership pathways. Simultaneously, facilitated discussions will empower participants to articulate shared challenges and co-develop solutions grounded in lived experience across diverse institutional contexts.

The long-term ambition extends beyond this event. The resulting report will serve as an evidence-based resource for institutions, funders, and professional organisations, supporting the development of more inclusive policies and funding mechanisms for dRTPs.

By fostering collaboration across BCLUK member organisations, this initiative will strengthen national coordination and visibility of dRTP roles within the wider research ecosystem.