Funder: Alzheimer's Research UK
Due Dates: July 2026 (Applications open) | October 28, 2026 (Application deadline) | Spring 2027 (Funding outcome)
Funding Amounts: Up to £100,000 for up to 12 months
Summary: Supports bold, exploratory dementia research that tests novel ideas, generates data and builds multidisciplinary collaborations.
Key Information: Lead Applicants must be based at a UK university, hospital or research institution.
Description
Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Pilot Award supports early-stage, high-risk, high-reward ideas that could unlock new directions in dementia research. Researchers at any career stage can use the award to test highly novel hypotheses, generate data and establish collaborations. Extensive preliminary data are not required, although existing data will be considered. The resulting evidence and partnerships are intended to provide a foundation for subsequent project and programme funding.
The scheme particularly welcomes early career researchers seeking a first independent award, new multidisciplinary collaborations and researchers entering dementia research from related disciplines. These include data science, chemistry, mathematics, immunology, engineering, physics and statistics. Proposals should explore innovative concepts with the potential to transform the field and benefit people affected by dementia.
