MRC (UKRI)
New Investigator Research Grant
Rolling deadline
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The MRC New Investigator Research Grant funds researchers transitioning to independence who have not previously led a research team or held a substantial grant as principal investigator, covering 80% of full economic costs for up to 50% of the applicant's time over three to five years. It is open to researchers based at UK research organisations, with applications accepted continuously rather than against a fixed call cycle. International co-leads can be included, but the grant itself is held by a UK-based applicant.
Details
| Funder | MRC (UKRI) |
| Duration | 3-5 years |
| Consortium | Optional — project co-leads, specialists and project partners may be included but are not required |
| Application | Single stage |
| Frequency | Continuous |
| Career stage | Early-career opportunity |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Supports researchers transitioning to independence who have not previously led a research team or held a substantial grant as PI. Funds 80% FEC for up to 50% of applicant's time; international project co-leads can be included. Based at a UK research organisation (excluding most international project leads).
Who Should Apply
- •Researchers moving into their first independent PI role
- •Applicants who have not previously led a team or held a substantial grant as PI
- •Researchers based at a UK research organisation
- •Applicants wanting to include international project co-leads or specialists
Key Dates
- •Rolling deadline, applications accepted continuously
- •Single-stage application process
- •Project duration of 3-5 years
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Because the deadline is rolling, there's no need to rush to match a cycle, focus on timing the application to your transition to independence.
- ✓Clearly frame the project as your first independent line of research, distinct from your PhD or postdoctoral supervisor's programme.
- ✓If including international project co-leads, be explicit about their role since the grant itself must be held at a UK research organisation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the MRC New Investigator Research Grant pay?
It covers 80% of full economic costs (FEC) for up to 50% of the applicant's time, over a project lasting 3-5 years.
Who is eligible for the MRC New Investigator Research Grant?
Researchers transitioning to independence who have not previously led a research team or held a substantial grant as PI, based at a UK research organisation.
When is the deadline for the MRC New Investigator Research Grant?
There is no fixed deadline, applications are accepted on a rolling, continuous basis.
Can I include international collaborators on an MRC New Investigator Research Grant?
Yes, international project co-leads and specialists can be included, though the grant must be held at a UK research organisation.
Is a consortium required for this grant?
No, a consortium is optional, project co-leads, specialists and project partners may be included but are not required.
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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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