MRC (UKRI)
MRC Proof of Concept
4:00pm UK time; stage two only — invitation required following successful stage one
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The MRC Proof of Concept scheme funds academically-led translational health research from early prototype through phase 2a clinical studies, with 80% Full Economic Costing (100% for permitted exceptions). Applications are two-stage, with stage two by invitation only following successful stage one; funding covers prevention, diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment of significant health needs, or research tools supporting intervention development. The lead organisation must be UK-based, though international co-leads from high-income countries, India, or China may participate up to 30% of total costs.
Details
| Funder | MRC (UKRI) |
| Budget | No limit stated; 80% FEC funded (100% for permitted exceptions) |
| Deadline | 4 November 2026 |
| Duration | No limit; justified by proposed work |
| Consortium | No |
| Application | 2-stage: stage one application → invited stage two application |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Stage two (invitation only) for academically-led translational health research: prevention, diagnosis, prognosis or treatment of significant health needs, or research tools improving intervention development. Covers early prototype to phase 2a clinical studies. UK lead organisation required; international co-leads eligible up to 30% of total costs (HIC/India/China). 80% FEC funded.
Who Should Apply
- •Academic researchers with promising early-stage translational research ready to prototype or early clinical validation
- •UK host institution as lead; international co-investigators from HIC, India, or China welcome up to 30% of costs
- •Translational health projects addressing prevention, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment of significant health needs, or intervention-development tools
- •Teams capable of managing early-to-mid-stage clinical development or technology prototype work
Key Dates
- •Stage one deadline: verify on MRC website (stage two invitation-only follows successful stage one)
- •Stage two deadline: 4 November 2026, 4:00pm UK time
- •Project duration justified by proposed work; no fixed maximum
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Stage one is competitive and filters heavily, clarity and feasibility matter more than depth; signal your path to stage two early.
- ✓Budget 80% FEC as baseline unless your research qualifies for 100% FEC exceptions (clarify eligibility before submission).
- ✓If including international co-leads, keep their total contribution transparent and capped at 30%; this simplifies both review and management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the MRC Proof of Concept scheme fund?
Academically-led translational health research covering prevention, diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment of significant health needs, plus research tools for intervention development, from early prototype through phase 2a clinical studies.
What is the funding rate for MRC Proof of Concept?
80% Full Economic Costing (FEC); 100% FEC is available for certain permitted exceptions.
Is MRC Proof of Concept two-stage?
Yes, stage one is open; successful applicants are invited to submit stage two by the November deadline.
Can international researchers apply for MRC Proof of Concept?
International co-leads are eligible up to 30% of total costs if based in high-income countries, India, or China; the lead organisation must be UK-based.
How long is an MRC Proof of Concept project?
Project duration is not fixed; it is justified by the proposed work and scope.
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Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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