# Collaborative Research Partnerships

**Funder:** UKRI
**Consortium:** Required
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Summary

UKRI's Collaborative Research Partnerships fund joint research projects between UK institutions and international partners, requiring a consortium of at least two eligible collaborators. The scheme is open to researchers across all disciplines and career stages, with the emphasis on cross-border collaboration and co-investigator leadership from partner organisations.

## Who should apply

- UK researchers at eligible institutions
- Research teams willing to establish formal partnerships with international co-investigators
- Projects with clear co-investigator roles for international partners, not subcontracting arrangements
- Multi-disciplinary consortia welcome

## Key dates

- First listed for applications on 22 March 2026

## Tips for applicants

- Consortium partners must have named, committed co-investigators, not advisory board members; UKRI reviews governance and co-leadership explicitly.
- International partner contributions (in-kind or cash) strengthen the joint-working narrative; budget allocation should reflect true partnership parity.
- Verify partner institution eligibility before finalising the consortium, not all countries or institution types are eligible for UKRI co-funding.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is a consortium required for UKRI Collaborative Research Partnerships?

Yes, a consortium of at least two eligible partners is mandatory; the scheme is designed around formal cross-border collaboration.

### Can international researchers lead an UKRI Collaborative Research Partnerships project?

The lead applicant must be based at a UK-eligible institution, but international co-investigators are required and can hold substantive leadership roles within the consortium.

### What countries can participate in UKRI Collaborative Research Partnerships?

The UK is the funding jurisdiction; eligible international partner countries vary and should be verified on the UKRI portal before application.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/ukri-collaborative-research-partnerships-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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