Experimental medicine: invited stage two application
Funds academically led experimental medicine projects testing mechanistic hypotheses in humans to advance understanding and treatment of disease, supporting novel technologies and interdisciplinary teams.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: September 2, 2026 (Stage two application deadline)
Funding Amounts: No set funding limit or project duration; UKRI funds 80% of full economic cost; typical awards are £1M+ for 3+ years.
Summary: Supports invited, academically led human experimental medicine projects testing mechanistic hypotheses to advance understanding and treatment of disease.
Key Information: Stage two applications are by invitation only following a successful stage one submission.
Description
This opportunity funds academically led experimental medicine projects that investigate the causes, progression, and treatment of human disease by testing mechanistic hypotheses through experimental interventions in humans. The focus is on projects that address a clearly defined gap in understanding human pathophysiology and have a credible path to clinical impact. Supported activities include the use of novel technologies, repurposing drugs with established safety profiles, and hypothesis-driven analysis of clinical samples. The scheme encourages interdisciplinary teams, supports new investigators, and requires defined progression milestones. Applications must be invited following a successful stage one application.
