Introduction

This funding opportunity, a pre-announcement for "Novel Human in Vitro Models of Complex Disease," is a grant program jointly funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC), Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). The program aims to establish a coordinated network of interdisciplinary clusters focused on developing, validating, and adapting advanced human in vitro disease models. The initiative seeks to address the urgent need for validated human in vitro disease models across academic and industry sectors, ultimately reducing reliance on animal models in research.

Scope of Work

The network aims to improve understanding of human disease mechanisms, overcome limitations of current in vivo and in vitro models, and accelerate the development and uptake of technologies for accurately modeling human physiology and disease. The program anticipates funding three clusters, each focusing on specific disease areas of high unmet need or addressing common needs across multiple disease domains. Each cluster must integrate interdisciplinary teams with expertise in bioengineering, biology, biophysics, clinical science, computational science, and industry partnerships.

Eligibility

To be eligible for this funding opportunity, applicants must be employed by an eligible research organization and meet individual eligibility requirements. The lead applicant must be actively engaged in the project and possess the expertise to lead a multi-organization project. International applicants can be included as project co-leads, making a significant intellectual contribution to the project. UKRI encourages applications from diverse researchers and supports flexible working arrangements.

Budget and Duration

The total fund for this opportunity is £10 million, with an anticipated funding of three clusters. Each cluster will receive funding for a duration of four years. The funding covers 80% of the full economic costs and 100% of permitted exceptions, including salaries, research consumables, equipment, travel, data preservation, and dissemination costs. PhD studentships and publication costs are not funded.

Additional Information

The program emphasizes the importance of end-user involvement, collaboration with industry partners, and open access to models, tools, and data. It encourages consideration of population-level diversity in cell and tissue choices and the benefits of using diverse data. The initiative aims to drive deeper mechanistic understanding of disease, enable interventional analysis, and address capability gaps in the UK research landscape.

Key Dates

• Pre-announcement: 20 September 2024
• Webinar: 16 October 2024
• Expression of Interest Opening Date: 5 November 2024
• Application Opening Date: 5 November 2024
• Expression of Interest Closing Date: 6 December 2024
• Workshop/Webinar: 22 January 2025
• Application Closing Date: 20 March 2025

Application Process

The application process consists of two stages: expression of interest and full application. The expression of interest stage is mandatory and requires submission of a template to humandiseasemodels@mrc.ukri.org by 6 December 2024. Following completion of the expression of interest, applicants will be invited to submit a full application. The full application stage will be conducted on the new UKRI Funding Service.

Selection Process

The selection process involves an expert assessment panel. The full criteria for assessment will be published when the full application stage opens. The expression of interest stage will not be formally assessed but will be used to check remit, invite applicants to a workshop, and inform panel composition.

Contact Information

For questions related to this specific funding opportunity, contact humandiseasemodels@mrc.ukri.org. For general questions related to MRC funding, email rfpd@mrc.ukri.org. For help with the application process, contact the UKRI Funding Service Helpdesk at support@funding-service.ukri.org or 01793 547490.

Reporting Requirements

The program requires regular reporting on project progress, including clear go/no-go decision points. Funded clusters must adopt an open and transparent approach to sharing models, tools, and data.

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