Expression of interest: Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) medical countermeasures R&D
UK Research and Innovation funds R&D to develop medical countermeasures and diagnostics for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats, supporting projects from pre-clinical to early clinical phases.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: October 20, 2026 (Expression of Interest) | January 20, 2027 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to £4 million per project (100% FEC), total fund £20 million, project duration up to 30 months
Summary: Supports pre-clinical and early translational research on medical countermeasures to improve preparedness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats.
Key Information: Mandatory EOI required; only UK-based eligible research organisations may lead.
Description
This grant opportunity, administered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and primarily funded through the Medical Research Council (MRC) with co-funding from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), is aimed at supporting research and development of medical countermeasures (MCMs) for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. The scheme funds projects across the developmental pathway, from early prototype development and pre-clinical refinement to early-phase clinical studies (up to phase 2a). The overarching goal is to enhance the UK’s domestic preparedness and health system response to CBRN incidents.
Priority research areas include:
- Development of novel vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics for CBRN threats
- Broad-spectrum interventions and symptomatic management approaches
- Drug repurposing studies for rapid deployment in emergencies
- Improved diagnostic and detection technologies for radiological and nuclear incidents
Collaboration with UK industry partners is encouraged but not required. Projects must be academic-led and demonstrate a clear need for MRC support.
