Translational Funders Day 2026 - MRC

An exciting opportunity for UoB and BHP researchers to engage directly with the MRC Translation Team and gain insight into the latest UKRI/MRC translational research landscape.

Whether you are developing your first translational funding application or preparing your next major bid, this event will provide valuable guidance on the range of MRC translational funding schemes and the opportunities available to support the progression of your research towards patient and societal impact.

During the day attendees will:

• Hear directly from the MRC Translation Team about the latest UKRI/MRC funding strategy and newly launched translational funding opportunities.
• Learn about the different MRC translational funding schemes and how to identify the most appropriate for your project.
• Gain practical advice and insider tips from MRC Programme Managers on developing and submitting a competitive translational funding application.
• Listen to case studies from successful academics who have secured MRC translational funding.
• Hear perspectives from MRC panel members on what makes a strong application.
• Participate in a panel Q&A session with funders and experts.
• Access bookable 1-to-1 meetings with MRC Programme Managers to discuss project suitability, scope, and funding strategy.

1-2-1 Sessions with MRC Programme Managers

Researchers interested in booking a 1-2-1 consultation with an MRC Programme Manager are required to submit a brief project summary (maximum half a page) in advance.

Submission deadline: 4 September, 4:00 pm

Project summaries and any related queries should be sent to the TRT email below with the subject '1-2-1 MRC TFD request':

translationalresearch@contacts.bham.ac.uk

These sessions offer an excellent opportunity to receive tailored feedback on project fit, funding scheme selection, and application timing before submission.

Provisional Programme – Speakers and Timings Subject to Confirmation

10.00 - 10:30 Registration and refreshments

Session 1: Chair – TBC

10:30 – 10:40 Welcome and introduction

10:40 – 11:20 MRC Translational Funding: Strategy, Schemes and Opportunities

11:20 – 11:50 University of Birmingham Case Studies

11:50 – 12:10 Review Panel Member Perspective

12:10 – 12:30 Refreshment break & Networking

12:30 – 12:50 Review Panel Member Perspective

12:50 – 14:00 Lunch and networking

Session 2 – Chair: TBC

14:00 – 14:30 Panel Discussion and Q&A: Developing Competitive Translational Funding Applications

Panel Members: TBC

14:30 – 16:30 One-to-one funding advice sessions

Please note that this programme is provisional. Speakers, timings and session content are subject to confirmation and may change.

About the MRC

The Medical Research Council (MRC) is dedicated to improving human health through world-class medical research. Central to its mission is the advancement of translational research that transforms scientific discoveries into tangible health benefits for patients and populations.

The MRC funds research across the full translational pathway - from fundamental discovery science and experimental medicine to early clinical studies - helping bridge the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and real-world impact. It plays a critical role in accelerating the progression of promising discoveries towards new therapies, diagnostics, medical technologies and preventive interventions by enabling researchers to generate evidence needed to de-risk innovation, overcome key development barriers and advance promising discoveries towards clinical application and commercialisation. Working closely with the NHS, government, charities and industry the MRC continues to drive innovations towards adoption, and commercialisation and ultimately patient benefit, maximising the health, societal and economic returns from investment in fundamental research.

In addition, the MRC invests in research infrastructure, skills development and public engagement to ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of biomedical innovation.