The Fast Track Scheme Application

Get the professional recognition you deserve – become an MRS Certified Member

“With my years of experience upholding the highest standards in research, becoming a CMRS member was the right choice for me. The fast-track route provides a rigorous but smooth process for those who are eligible, and I would highly recommend it.”

Adrian Smith, Research Director, Pye Tait Consulting

The Fast Track Scheme is aimed at individuals with at least seven years’ research–related experience at a senior level, who wish to become MRS Certified Members on the basis of their career profile. This is one of the 10 routes to Certified Membership.

How to apply

1. Submission of all the following:

• Completed application form providing examples of relevant experience which meets the twelve benchmark standards(click through to description of the 12 Standards) for Certified Membership
• Curriculum vitae
• Current job description and organisation chart (if applicable)
• Letters/email of support from two referees, one of whom should an MRS Member
• Administration fee – MRS Members £420 Non-Members £590 which includes the annual membership and joining fees. Successful applicants will be admitted directly as Certified Members of MRS (CMRS).

Supporting documentation including references should be emailed to michelle.denslow@mrs.org.uk

It is strongly recommended that before you embark on completing the Fast Track application form you either:

1. Call Michelle Denslow on +44 (0)20 7566 1871, who will provide you with guidance related to your situation that will facilitate your application.
2. Watch the Webinar. This will guide you through the application process and explain the benchmark standards.  

"I am delighted to become a certified member and it has given me a deep sense of professional achievement and further solidifies my connection with the MRS. The application process was thorough but there was lots of help and information available to complete my application and the peer review was an enjoyable and encouraging process. If you’re considering applying, I highly recommend taking the plunge!"

Lindsey Stack, Associate, Systra

Still have questions? Email michelle.denslow@mrs.org.uk

What happens next?
Your application form and supporting documentation is checked by MRS to ensure entry criteria has been met. You will then be contacted by the membership team regarding your assessment and to arrange a date for your peer review.

The Peer Review
A key element of the Fast Track application process is a peer review.  The peer review takes place remotely using Zoom or Teams and is with two assessors who are MRS Fellows.  The Fellows are there to have a discussion with you about your knowledge skills and experience.  They are individuals from research who want to talk to you and understand your background.  They will use your application and supporting documentation to get an idea about you, but the peer review will give you an opportunity to expand on this information.

Once the peer review has been undertaken, we aim to let you know the results within 1-2 days.

Application form

MRS Benchmark Standards