UKRI Translation: MRC Proof of Concept: stage one
UKRI Translation: MRC Proof of Concept: stage one funds academic research to develop and test new therapeutics, devices, diagnostics, or interventions from early development through early clinical studies.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: November 18, 2026 (Stage one) | March 3, 2027 (Stage two, if invited) | July 7, 2027 (Deferred stage two, if invited)
Funding Amounts: No fixed upper limit; typical awards fund 80% of full economic cost (FEC); project duration and budget must be justified to the proposed work.
Summary: Supports academically-led translational projects to develop and test novel therapeutics, devices, diagnostics, or interventions from early development to early-phase clinical studies.
Key Information: Two-stage application; only one application as project lead per round; resubmission allowed once if invited.
Description
This funding opportunity, offered by UK Research and Innovation’s Medical Research Council (MRC), supports translational research projects aimed at developing and testing novel therapeutics, medical devices, diagnostics, and other interventions. Projects can span any stage of the developmental pathway—from early prototype development through pre-clinical refinement to early-phase clinical studies (up to phase 2a). The scheme is designed to accelerate innovative solutions that address significant health needs, whether in prevention, diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment, or through the development of research tools that enhance intervention development. The grant is open to all human diseases and medical interventions, both within the UK and in global health contexts. Collaboration with charities or industry is encouraged when it adds value, but the award must be academically led.
