Developmental pathway funding scheme: invited stage two
Funds academically-led translational research to develop and test innovative therapeutics, devices, diagnostics, or interventions addressing major health needs from early development to early-phase clinical studies.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: July 8, 2026 (Full application deadline for invited stage two)
Funding Amounts: No upper limit; typically funds 80% of project’s full economic cost; £26,000,000 total fund for this round.
Summary: Supports academically-led translational research to develop and test novel therapeutics, devices, diagnostics, and interventions addressing significant health needs, from early development to early-phase clinical studies.
Key Information: Only invited applicants following a successful stage one application are eligible.
Description
This scheme funds translational research projects that aim to advance novel therapeutics, medical devices, diagnostics, and other interventions from early development through pre-clinical testing to early-phase (up to phase 2a) clinical studies. The focus is on innovations that address significant health needs or advance research tools, with the goal of progressing these towards patient or market benefit. Projects must be academically led, but collaboration with industry or charities is encouraged where it adds value. The scheme emphasizes robust project management, milestone-driven progress, and risk mitigation. Fundamental research not linked to a development plan, late-phase clinical trials, and projects focused on health service delivery or population-level healthcare improvements are not supported.
