Introduction

This funding opportunity, offered by the Medical Research Council (MRC), is designed to support new investigators in molecular and cellular medicine who are ready to transition to independence. The grant aims to fund research that advances understanding in areas like cell biology, structural biology, genetics, developmental biology, and regenerative medicine. The MRC seeks to fund research that contributes to understanding the structure and function of molecules, the cellular environment, and how biological systems respond to challenges and diseases.

Scope of Work

The MRC is looking for new investigators with a proposal for research that increases understanding within the field of molecular and cellular medicine. The research should focus on basic biological mechanisms or technologies relevant to human health and disease. The research should aim to increase understanding of the structure and function of molecules and complexes, the cellular environment during development and mature states, and how biological systems respond to challenges (for example, drugs and toxins) and diseases.

Eligibility

To be eligible for this funding opportunity, applicants must have research organization support and demonstrate that their skills and experience match those in the ‘transition to independence’ stage of the MRC applicant skills and experience table. They must also use this grant to support their long-term career goals and chosen career route, show that they will direct and be the sole intellectual leader of the proposed project, and focus their application within the research area of molecular and cellular medicine.

Budget and Duration

There is no limit to the funding you can apply for, but the typical full economic cost of a project is under £1 million. MRC will usually fund 80% of the full economic cost. This funding usually lasts three years and covers up to 50% of your salary. New investigator research grants are not renewable.

Additional Information

The MRC encourages applicants to contact them before submitting an application, especially if their research may cross MRC or research council interests. If the application fits another research board remit better, the MRC may decide to transfer it there to be assessed.

Key Dates

• Opening Date: 18 September 2024 9:00am UK time
• Closing Date: 9 January 2025 4:00pm UK time
• Shortlisting Decision Meeting: May 2025
• Funding Decision Meeting: July 2025
• Informed of Funding Decision: Within 10 working days of funding decision meeting

Application Process

• Applications must be submitted through the new UKRI Funding Service.
• The project lead is responsible for completing the application process.
• The lead research organization must submit the application to UKRI.
• Applicants are encouraged to check their application in ‘read-only’ view before sending it to their research office.
• The research office will submit the completed and checked application to UKRI.

Selection Process

• Applications will be examined to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and scope of the funding opportunity.
• Applications will be peer-reviewed by experts against the specified criteria.
• Shortlisted applications will be reviewed by a funding panel.
• The MRC will make the final funding decision.

Contact Information

• For help and advice on costings and writing your proposal, contact your research office.
• For questions related to remit and scientific aspects of this specific funding opportunity, email: mcmb@mrc.ukri.org
• For general questions related to MRC funding, email: rfpd@mrc.ukri.org
• For queries regarding the system or the submission of applications through the Funding Service, contact the helpdesk: support@funding-service.ukri.org or 01793 547490.

Reporting Requirements

If your application is successful, the MRC will publish some personal information on the UKRI Gateway to Research.

For More funding Opportunities, Visit Global Funding Opportunities.