Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Bilateral Research Fund (BRF) supports early-career researchers in Portugal and the United Kingdom to build new collaborations through joint research projects. Grants of up to €3,000 are available primarily for travel and collaboration activities between institutions.
The program strengthens scientific diplomacy, knowledge exchange, and long-term partnerships between Portuguese and UK research communities.
What is the Bilateral Research Fund?
The Bilateral Research Fund is a joint initiative designed to promote scientific collaboration and diplomacy between Portugal and the UK.
It is supported by:
- Foundation for Science and Technology
- British Embassy Lisbon (via the UK Science and Innovation Network)
Program Objectives
The BRF aims to:
- Foster new research partnerships between Portugal and the UK
- Support early-career researchers
- Encourage knowledge exchange and innovation
- Strengthen bilateral scientific relations
- Promote collaboration across disciplines
Funding Details
Total Fund Size
- €15,000 (FCT contribution)
- £12,000 (~€14,166) from the UK side
Grant Amount
- Up to €3,000 per project
What the Grant Covers
Primary use:
- Travel between Portugal and the UK
- Accommodation
- Subsistence costs
Secondary use (limited portion):
- Laboratory consumables
- Software licenses
- Data collection and analysis support
What is NOT Covered
- Equipment purchases
- Institutional overheads
Key Focus Areas
The program is open to all research fields, with emphasis on:
- Collaborative innovation
- Scientific and technological advancement
- Knowledge transfer between countries
Who is Eligible?
Lead Applicant (Main Applicant)
Must:
- Be an early-career researcher
- Hold a doctoral degree (PhD)
- Not hold a permanent academic position
- Have a contract extending beyond project duration
- Be based at a research institution in Portugal or the UK
- Be an associate member of PARSUK
Co-Investigator(s)
- Must be based in the partner country
- Can be permanent staff
- Not required to be early-career
- Must be PARSUK associate members
Additional Team Members
- PhD students and postdoctoral researchers are encouraged
- Multiple collaborators from different institutions allowed
Collaboration Requirement
Each application must include:
- 1 Lead Applicant
- At least 1 Co-Investigator from the partner country
Why This Fund Matters
International collaboration is essential for advancing research and innovation.
The BRF helps:
- Build long-term academic partnerships
- Enable mobility and exchange of ideas
- Support early-career researchers’ growth
- Strengthen scientific diplomacy between Portugal and the UK
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Form a Bilateral Team
- Identify a partner institution in the UK or Portugal
- Define Your Project
- Focus on collaboration and knowledge exchange
- Prepare Application
- Include work plan, budget, and expected outcomes
- Ensure Eligibility
- Confirm PARSUK membership and criteria compliance
- Submit Proposal
- Follow official BRF application guidelines
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly define collaboration goals
- Emphasize knowledge exchange and partnership building
- Keep the project realistic within the budget
- Show potential for long-term collaboration
- Highlight the value of mobility and interaction
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Weak or unclear collaboration plan
- Budget misuse (e.g., equipment requests)
- Not meeting early-career eligibility criteria
- Missing PARSUK membership requirement
- Overly ambitious project scope
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the maximum grant amount?
Up to €3,000 per project.
2. Who funds the program?
It is funded by Foundation for Science and Technology and the British Embassy Lisbon.
3. Who can apply as Lead Applicant?
An early-career researcher with a PhD and a non-permanent academic position.
4. Is collaboration mandatory?
Yes, proposals must include partners from both Portugal and the UK.
5. Can the grant be used for equipment?
No, equipment purchases are not allowed.
6. Are PhD students eligible?
They can participate but cannot be Lead Applicants.
7. What is the main purpose of the fund?
To promote collaboration, mobility, and scientific exchange.
Conclusion
The Bilateral Research Fund 2026 is an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers to establish international collaborations and expand their research networks.
By supporting mobility and joint research activities, the program strengthens scientific ties between Portugal and the UK while fostering innovation and knowledge exchange.
For more information, visit PARSUK.