NERC
Exploring the Frontiers of Environmental Research 2026
4:00pm UK time
Last updated:
NERC's Exploring the Frontiers of Environmental Research programme funds early-stage, high-risk environmental projects up to £200,000 (80% UKRI cover) over two years. The call targets UK-based researchers at eligible institutions working on curiosity-driven questions within NERC's environmental remit, with no requirement for preliminary data. Multidisciplinary teams and Norwegian co-leads are welcome, and applicants can draw down equipment costs over £25,000.
Details
| Funder | NERC |
| Budget | 80% of FEC between £100k–£200k |
| Deadline | 12 November 2026 |
| Duration | Up to 2 years |
| Consortium | Optional — multidisciplinary collaborations with other organisations are encouraged; international co-lead permitted only for Norwegian institutions under UKRI–Research Council of Norway Money Follows Cooperation agreement |
| Application | Single stage |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Supports early-stage, curiosity-driven, high-risk/high-reward environmental research within NERC's remit. Project lead must be UK-resident and employed by an eligible UK research organisation. FEC £100k–£200k; UKRI funds 80% (Norwegian co-lead costs funded at 100%). No preliminary data required. Max 2 years; projects must start by 1 May 2027.
Who Should Apply
- •Early-career and established researchers at UK-eligible research organisations
- •Project leads who are UK-resident and employed by a UK institution
- •Researchers with curiosity-driven environmental questions (no preliminary data needed)
- •Teams open to multidisciplinary collaboration; Norwegian co-leads eligible under RCN agreement
- •Researchers whose work falls within NERC's remit (atmospheric, biological, marine, earth sciences)
Key Dates
- •Deadline 12 November 2026, 4:00pm UK time
- •Up to two-year project duration
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Preliminary data is not a gating criterion, pitch the question and the approach, not preliminary results.
- ✓Flag equipment items over £25k early in the proposal; justify their necessity, as NERC scrutinises large-item justification.
- ✓If you intend a Norwegian co-lead, confirm RCN Money Follows Cooperation eligibility before finalising the budget split (100% UKRI cover for Norwegian leads simplifies the sums).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the budget range for NERC Exploring the Frontiers?
Full Economic Cost (FEC) between £100,000 and £200,000, with UKRI funding 80%; Norwegian co-leads receive 100% UKRI cover.
Who can be the project lead for Exploring the Frontiers?
The project lead must be UK-resident and employed by an eligible UK research organisation.
Do I need preliminary data to apply?
No, NERC funds early-stage, curiosity-driven research and does not require preliminary data.
Can I include equipment over £25k in the budget?
Equipment items over £25k are not eligible for funding under this call.
Are international collaborators permitted?
Yes, multidisciplinary collaborations are encouraged; Norwegian institutions can be co-leads under the UKRI, RCN Money Follows Cooperation agreement, but other international partners may be collaborators only.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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