# EME Programme Researcher-Led

**Funder:** NIHR
**Application:** 2-stage: outline application → full application
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.nihr.ac.uk/funding/eme-programme-researcher-led/2026483
**Last updated:** 14 Aug 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Funds clinical trials and mechanistic studies evaluating efficacy of promising health interventions. Requires proof of concept in humans, patient/public involvement, and hypothesis-driven design. Clinical trials must engage an accredited UKCRC CTU and comply with UK MHRA regulations. Lead applicant's employing institution must act as sponsor. UK-based host institutions.

## Summary

The NIHR EME Programme Researcher-Led funds clinical trials and mechanistic studies testing the efficacy of promising health interventions in UK settings. The call targets researchers with proof-of-concept evidence and hypothesis-driven designs; clinical trials must partner with an accredited UKCRC Clinical Trials Unit and comply with UK MHRA regulations. Patient and public involvement is mandatory.

## Who should apply

- Researchers based at UK-hosting institutions with proven organisational research support
- Clinical trial teams with accredited UKCRC CTU partnership already in place
- Applicants with preliminary human proof-of-concept data or mechanistic evidence
- Projects with structured patient and public involvement embedded in design

## Key dates

- Two-stage evaluation: outline application → full application and review

## Tips for applicants

- CTU partnership is non-negotiable for clinical trials; confirm accreditation and capacity before submission.
- Patient/public involvement is assessed as part of feasibility; involve PPI representatives early in proposal shaping, not as an afterthought.
- Lead applicant's institution must formally act as sponsor; clarify sponsorship governance with your research office before drafting the outline.

## Frequently asked questions

### What types of research does NIHR EME fund?

Clinical trials and mechanistic studies evaluating the efficacy of promising health interventions, with proof-of-concept evidence in humans and hypothesis-driven designs.

### Do I need a Clinical Trials Unit for NIHR EME funding?

Clinical trials must partner with an accredited UKCRC Clinical Trials Unit and comply with UK MHRA regulations; mechanistic studies do not have this requirement.

### Where can I host an NIHR EME project?

Host institutions must be UK-based. Your employing institution will act as the project sponsor.

### Is patient involvement required for NIHR EME?

Yes, patient and public involvement is mandatory and assessed as part of the application.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/nihr-eme-programme-researcher-led-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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