MRC (UKRI)
MRC Experimental Medicine – New Investigator Award
4:00pm UK time
Last verified:
The MRC Experimental Medicine, New Investigator Award supports early-career researchers in the UK (postdoctoral, lecturers, junior fellows) to lead their first independent human-subjects experimental medicine projects over three years. Applicants must have no prior leadership of a research team or substantial grant, with salary capped at 50% of contracted time. This call enables transition to research independence through a structured pathway in experimental medicine.
Details
| Funder | MRC (UKRI) |
| Deadline | 7 October 2026 |
| Duration | Typically 3 years |
| Career stage | Early-career opportunity |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Supports early-career researchers (postdoctoral, lecturers, junior fellows) who have not previously led a research team or held a substantial grant, enabling transition to independence through an experimental medicine project in humans. Salary capped at 50% of contracted working time; applicant must be sole intellectual leader. Typical duration three years.
Who Should Apply
- •Postdoctoral researchers, lecturers, or junior fellows with no prior research team leadership
- •Researchers without substantial prior grant funding
- •Applicants based at UK institutions eligible for MRC funding
- •Projects centred on experimental medicine in human subjects
- •Researchers seeking to establish independence in a structured three-year framework
Key Dates
- •Deadline 7 October 2026 at 4:00pm UK time
- •Typical project duration three years
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Applicant must be the sole intellectual leader, highlight your independent contribution, not a continuation of prior supervisor's work.
- ✓Salary is capped at 50% of contracted time; cost your effort realistically and show how you will transition to full independence.
- ✓Experimental medicine focus means human subjects; proposals confined to cell or animal models do not fit this call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the MRC Experimental Medicine, New Investigator Award?
Postdoctoral researchers, lecturers, and junior fellows who have not previously led a research team or held a substantial grant and are based at a UK institution.
How long is the MRC Experimental Medicine, New Investigator Award?
Typically three years.
Can I apply if I have already held a research grant?
No, the award targets researchers who have not previously led a research team or held a substantial grant; prior junior co-investigator roles are acceptable but not prior leadership.
What is the salary cap for the MRC Experimental Medicine, New Investigator Award?
Salary is capped at 50% of your contracted working time.
What type of research does this award fund?
Experimental medicine projects in human subjects; applicants must be the sole intellectual leader of the proposed work.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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