Wellcome Trust

Wellcome is a global charitable foundation that funds discovery research into life, health and wellbeing, and advocates for policies that improve health for all. Established in 1936 and headquartered in the Gibbs Building in central London, it operates worldwide with a team of hundreds of professionals and an investment portfolio of around £38-39 billion, from which its grant-making and operations are sustained.

Its work falls into three broad areas. Grant funding programmes support discovery research around the world across a wide range of disciplines, with the aim of enabling breakthroughs in scientific discovery. Policy work advocates for measures that improve health for all. Engagement initiatives bring together expertise from across science and society to drive change. Subject areas covered include health research, life sciences, mental health, infectious disease, climate and health, and science and innovation policy.

Wellcome describes itself as independent and politically neutral, with a focus on public benefit. Its stated cultural values include collaboration, curiosity and a commitment to equity, and it emphasises equitable solutions for people who need them most. The organisation brings together staff from diverse backgrounds and disciplines to work on urgent health challenges.