Deadline: 08-Jul-2026
Leukaemia UK’s Project Grant Programme supports innovative, high-impact research in leukaemia with funding of up to £250,000 for projects lasting up to three years. The scheme is aimed at established UK-based research leaders and clinician scientists conducting novel, clearly defined research with strong scientific and clinical potential. After the 2026 funding round, the programme will pause while a new translational small grant scheme is developed for 2027.
Programme Overview
The Leukaemia UK Project Grant Programme is designed to fund high-quality, innovative research projects focused on leukaemia. It supports clearly defined, novel studies that can advance scientific understanding and improve clinical outcomes.
This programme does not fund ongoing or previously established research. It is strictly aimed at new research ideas with strong potential for impact.
Funding Details
- Maximum funding available: up to £250,000 per project
- Project duration: up to 3 years
- Type of funding: Competitive research project grants
- Purpose: Support innovative leukaemia research with clinical or scientific impact
- Funding status update: After the 2026 round, new Project Grant calls will be paused
- Future direction: A new translational small grant scheme is planned for 2027, along with less frequent thematic funding calls
Research Focus and Objectives
The programme prioritizes research that:
- Introduces novel and original scientific ideas in leukaemia research
- Demonstrates strong potential for clinical or scientific impact
- Contributes to improved diagnosis, treatment, or understanding of leukaemia
- Advances translational research that bridges laboratory findings and patient care
- Strengthens the UK’s research leadership in haematological cancers
Who Is Eligible?
Applications are open to experienced researchers based in the United Kingdom.
Eligible applicants include:
- Established research group leaders
- Senior clinician scientists
- Senior research scientists
Applicants must have:
- A strong and proven research track record
- The ability to lead high-quality, independent research projects
- A clearly defined and innovative project proposal
Not eligible:
- Early-stage or unsupported research ideas without a defined project structure
- Applications from individuals without senior research experience
- Funding for continuation of existing research projects
Why This Funding Matters
This grant programme plays an important role in advancing leukaemia research by:
- Supporting breakthrough scientific discoveries
- Enabling early-stage innovation with clinical relevance
- Strengthening UK-based medical research capacity
- Encouraging translational research that can move from lab to clinic
- Supporting researchers working on high-impact cancer solutions
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official Leukaemia UK Funding Management System.
Step-by-step process:
- Create an account on the Leukaemia UK Funding Management System
- Register all required participants, including:
- Lead applicant
- Co-applicants
- Head of Department
- Institutional Finance Approver
- Prepare a detailed research proposal outlining:
- Novelty and innovation
- Scientific methodology
- Expected impact
- Feasibility within the funding period
- Ensure internal institutional approvals are completed
- Submit the final application through the online system before the deadline
Important requirement:
- All applications must be fully approved by relevant institutional authorities before submission
Evaluation Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Scientific excellence of the proposal
- Degree of innovation and originality
- Potential scientific and clinical impact
- Strength and experience of the research team
- Feasibility and clarity of project design
- Contribution to leukaemia research advancement
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting projects that are already in progress
- Lack of clear innovation or novelty in research design
- Weak explanation of clinical or scientific impact
- Missing institutional approvals before submission
- Underestimating the time required for internal approvals
- Poorly defined project scope or methodology
Tips for a Strong Application
- Start preparation early to avoid administrative delays
- Clearly define the research question and expected outcomes
- Emphasize translational or clinical relevance
- Provide strong justification for innovation and impact
- Ensure all co-applicants are fully registered in advance
- Align the proposal with Leukaemia-focused research priorities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum funding available?
Applicants can receive up to £250,000 per project under this programme.
How long can the project last?
Projects can run for a maximum duration of three years.
Who can apply for this grant?
Senior-level researchers in the UK, including research group leaders and clinician scientists with strong track records, are eligible.
Can existing research projects be funded?
No, the programme only supports new and clearly defined research projects.
How is the application submitted?
Applications must be submitted through the Leukaemia UK Funding Management System with full institutional approvals.
What happens after the 2026 funding round?
The Project Grant Programme will pause while a new translational small grant scheme is developed for 2027.
What makes a strong application?
A strong application demonstrates innovation, scientific excellence, feasibility, and clear clinical or scientific impact.
Conclusion
The Leukaemia UK Project Grant Programme is a competitive funding opportunity supporting innovative research aimed at improving understanding and treatment of leukaemia. It prioritizes high-impact, novel projects led by experienced researchers in the UK. With funding of up to £250,000, it provides significant support for advancing translational and clinical research before transitioning into a new funding structure after 2026.
For more information, visit Leukaemia UK.