Scheme Overview

This funding opportunity focuses on leveraging longitudinal datasets to transform early intervention in mental health. The goal is to develop innovative ways of identifying anxiety, depression, and/or psychosis early. Successful projects will integrate cutting-edge analytics of longitudinal data with experimental research.

The funding amount ranges from £1-5 million per project, with a duration of 3-5 years. The scheme is open to early-career, mid-career, and established researchers. Co-applicants are accepted, fostering collaborative research.

The administering organisation can be located anywhere in the world (apart from mainland China). This is a one-off funding opportunity, so make sure you don't miss the deadlines. The application process is competitive and requires careful preparation.

Research Focus and Eligibility

The research should utilize existing longitudinal datasets and integrate experimental research to predict the onset or progression of anxiety, depression, or psychosis. Longitudinal data is defined as data collected over time with a minimum of three time-points. Establishing entirely new cohorts is not within the scope of this funding.

Projects should develop data-driven or hypothesis-driven early identification models and advance their translational potential. The aim is to create a step-change in early intervention for anxiety, depression, and/or psychosis. Consider exploring the Atlas of Longitudinal Datasets for available resources.

Proposed research projects must use cutting-edge data analytics to develop prediction models and validate them in independent existing datasets. Meaningful integration of relevant lived experience expertise in the research team is essential. Collaboration between diverse and multidisciplinary teams is also required.

Key Application Requirements

Applications must include innovative experimental research that will transform our understanding of early identification factors. This research can extend from molecular and cellular levels to animal or human research and intervention trials. Validation datasets need to be separate from the datasets used to develop the model.

Projects should focus on predicting the onset and progression of anxiety, depression, and/or psychosis, including related conditions like bipolar disorder and PTSD. While not mandatory, research within and across low- and middle-income countries is encouraged. The use of qualitative/unstructured data is also encouraged.

Ensure your team includes mental health and data science expertise. A strong emphasis is placed on the potential to enrich existing longitudinal datasets through linkage to other sources or the collection of additional data. Make sure your application clearly demonstrates the translational potential of your research.

Application Timeline and Preparation

Applications open on 23 April 2025. The application deadline is 22 July 2025 at 17:00 BST. Late applications will not be accepted, so plan accordingly. Shortlisting will occur in September 2025, followed by interviews in December 2025.

The funding decision will be made in December 2025. Register for the information webinar on 7 May 2025 at 13:30 BST to learn more about eligibility and tips for embedding lived experience in your research. You can submit questions in advance.

To prepare, initiate discussions about research projects, foster collaborations, and explore available resources like the Atlas of Longitudinal Datasets. Consider using the Neuromatch platform to establish novel collaborations. The registration deadline for Neuromatch is 14 May 2025.