Breast Cancer Now Project Grants Launch for 2021

Breast Cancer Now is a charitable organisation set up in 1988 with the objective of researching a cure for breast cancer. It works to be a leading specialist in breast cancer research across the UK and Ireland, making a significant impact on breast cancer for the benefit of patients.

Breast Cancer Now provides Project Grants to support proposals which aim to achieve scientific excellence and innovative research advances in the field of breast cancer. Awards are available for established researchers in the UK or Ireland who have a strong track record in their field, and who want to work in one of Breast Cancer Now’s priority areas, although applications from talented researchers at the start of their independent careers are also encouraged.

Projects can last from one to three years, and research should lead to improvements in the prevention, detection and treatment of all forms of breast cancer.

To be eligible applicants should be based within the UK or Ireland in a recognised academic institution. They must have conducted independent research in the field of breast cancer or be an experienced researcher in a related field, and wish to build on their history and reputation in the breast cancer area, deepening their knowledge and experience. Early career researchers can apply but should have at least two years of postdoctoral experience before applying.

Lead applicants must be a permanent salaried member of staff at a recognised academic institution. However, lead applicants with a fixed-term position may apply as long as the grant falls fully within the period covered by their tenure, but cannot request costs for their salary.

Collaborative applications from within UK and Ireland are welcome, although the contracted grant (and associated funding arrangements) will be with the Lead Applicant’s institution.

Applications for research to be conducted within the NHS are eligible, however in the event that the research will progress to a clinical trial, Breast Cancer Now will not act as a sponsor.

Project grants are available up to the value of £230,000, and awards will not normally exceed £75,000 per annum. Awards can cover items such as staff salary, research expenses and essential equipment.

Applications should be submitted by the 6 August 2021 deadline.