[Alzheimer's Research UK](https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/research)

October 2026

Up to £70,000 for up to 2 years per project.

Supports innovative, early-stage research in dementia to generate preliminary data for larger future projects or translational collaborations.

--- ## Description This grant scheme funds pilot and small translational projects in the field of dementia research. The main aim is to support novel research ideas that, if successful, could lead to larger-scale studies or collaborations with the Alzheimer's Research UK Drug Discovery Alliance. Funding can be used for research salaries, equipment, animal costs, and other running costs. The scheme is designed to help researchers generate preliminary data and foster new directions in dementia research, including basic preclinical and translational studies. --- ## Due Dates - October 2026 (anticipated full application/submission deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum award: up to £70,000 per project - Duration: up to 2 years - Funding covers: research and technical salaries, equipment, animal costs, consumables, and travel --- ## Eligibility - **Lead Applicant:** Must be based at a UK academic or research institution (university, hospital department, or Research Council-funded institute). - **Co-applicants:** May include researchers from outside the UK and small/medium enterprises. - **Contract Requirements:** Lead Applicant must have a contract (fixed-term or tenure) covering the grant duration. If not tenured, a co-applicant with tenure must be included. - **Project Type:** Must align with Alzheimer’s Research UK’s remit (biomedical research into the cause, diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of dementia). Care or service delivery research is not eligible. - **Ethical Approvals:** Required if the project involves human or animal research. - **Drug Discovery Alliance Collaboration:** For projects aiming for future collaboration, early discussion with a DDI Chief Scientific Officer is required, along with a letter of support. - **Not for:** Bridging funds for staff between posts or clinical trials. For further details, see the [Eligibility Guidelines (PDF)](https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ARUK-Grant-Scheme-Eligibility-Document-September-2025.pdf). --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted via the [grant application website](https://grants.alzheimersresearchuk.org/). - Calls for applications appear only when the round is open. - The review process is based on scientific merit, potential impact, applicant expertise, and fit to scheme criteria. - Projects involving human volunteers are also reviewed by people with lived experience of dementia. - All applicants must adhere to ARUK’s [research guidelines and policies](https://alzheimersresearchuk.org/research/for-researchers/resources-and-information/research-guidelines-and-policies/). --- ## Additional Information - Regular progress reporting is required for all funded projects. - The scheme is not intended to fund clinical trials. - For projects seeking preliminary data before collaboration with a Drug Discovery Institute, early engagement with DDI CSOs is mandatory. --- ## External Links - [Pilot Projects Scheme Details](https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/grants/pilot-projects) - [Eligibility Guidelines (PDF)](https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ARUK-Grant-Scheme-Eligibility-Document-September-2025.pdf) - [Application FAQs](https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/research/for-researchers/grant-schemes/application-faqs/) - [Research Guidelines and Policies](https://alzheimersresearchuk.org/research/for-researchers/resources-and-information/research-guidelines-and-policies/) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |------------------------|------------------------------------------| | General enquiries | research@alzheimersresearchuk.org | | Phone | 0300 111 5555 | | Researcher resources | [Resources and Information](https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/research/for-researchers/resources-and-information/) | ---

Pilot Projects

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