The Medical Research Council (MRC) offers funding for researchers in population and systems medicine. This grant supports researchers transitioning to independence, enabling them to lead impactful projects in their field. This is an ongoing funding opportunity designed to foster the next generation of research leaders.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must possess the skills and experience necessary to transition to independence. A critical requirement is the support of a host research organization eligible for MRC funding. This ensures that researchers have the necessary infrastructure and mentorship to succeed.

To be eligible, applicants should demonstrate a clear trajectory towards becoming independent researchers. This includes a strong publication record and evidence of leadership potential. Securing support from an eligible host institution is a prerequisite for application.

• Skills and experience to transition to independence
• Support from an MRC-eligible host research organization

Funding Details

There is no limit to the funding amount you can request. However, the typical full economic cost (FEC) of a project is under £1 million. The MRC will typically fund 80% of the full economic cost.

The funding usually lasts for three years and covers up to 50% of your salary. This support allows researchers to dedicate their time to the proposed research project. The grant aims to provide a stable platform for developing an independent research career.

This grant is designed to cover a significant portion of research expenses, including salary support and project costs. Applicants should carefully budget their proposals to reflect the scope and needs of their research.

Key Dates and Timeline

The opening date for applications is May 2, 2025, at 9:00 am UK time. The closing date for applications is September 4, 2025, at 4:00 pm UK time. Make sure to submit your application before the deadline.

The shortlisting decision meeting is scheduled for January 29, 2026, at 4:00 pm. The funding decision meeting will take place from March 18 to 19, 2026. Applicants will be informed of the funding decision within 10 working days of the funding decision meeting.

Future rounds for applications will open from September 2025 to January 2026 and again from January 2026 to May 2026. This ongoing opportunity allows researchers to plan and apply in subsequent rounds if needed.

Research Focus

The funding supports research in population and systems medicine. This encompasses a wide range of topics aimed at understanding health and disease at a population level. The goal is to improve healthcare outcomes through innovative research approaches.

Projects should align with the MRC's strategic priorities in population and systems medicine. This includes research that integrates diverse data sources to understand complex biological systems. Proposals should demonstrate potential for significant impact on public health.

This funding opportunity encourages interdisciplinary research that combines expertise from various fields. Successful projects will likely involve collaboration across different disciplines to address complex research questions.

Application Process

To apply, start your application through the provided link. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before beginning the application process. Prepare all necessary documents and information in advance.

Your application should clearly articulate your research question, methodology, and expected outcomes. Highlight your skills and experience, and demonstrate the support of your host institution. A well-structured and compelling proposal is essential for success.

Carefully review the assessment criteria to understand how your application will be evaluated. Address each criterion in your proposal to maximize your chances of securing funding. Seek feedback from mentors and colleagues to improve your application.

Suggested Research Topics

Here are some research topics relevant to this funding opportunity:

• Data Science and Machine Learning in Healthcare
• Genomics and Personalized Medicine
• Epidemiology and Public Health Interventions
• Systems Biology Approaches to Disease Modeling
• Digital Health and Remote Monitoring Technologies