Objectives:
- Support research exploring mechanisms and triggers of fungal adaptation.
- Focus on fungi in environments linked to disease and/or affected by climate change.
- Generate breakthroughs in understanding fungal biology.
- Strengthen research networks and empower future leaders in fungal research.
Target Beneficiaries:
- Mid-career and established researchers.
- Individual researchers or teams (2-8 members) with expertise in fungal biology or molecular mechanisms of environmental adaptation.
- Teams encouraged to include diverse disciplines and early/mid-career researchers.
- Applicants based in the UK, Republic of Ireland, or low- and middle-income countries (excluding mainland China).
- Eligible organizations include higher education institutions, research institutes, non-academic healthcare, and non-profit research organizations.
Application Process:
- Apply via the Wellcome Funding Platform.
- Submit application with letters of support from organizations and finance directors.
- Applications reviewed for eligibility and scope.
- Shortlisted applicants invited for virtual interviews with presentations and Q&A.
- Final funding decisions made by Wellcome’s Discovery Research Decision Board.
- Application deadlines and timelines are published; next deadline typically in January.
Key Features:
- One-off funding up to £3 million for up to 5 years.
- Funding covers salaries (with conditions), research staff, materials, equipment, travel, fieldwork, and other research costs.
- Emphasis on research directly linked to human health, focusing on non-model fungi, climate change adaptation, disease relevance, antifungal resistance, and host immune interactions.
- Not for translational clinical research, drug development, or projects focused on host adaptation.
- Encourages ethical, equitable partnerships and inclusive research environments.
- Supports career development, diversity, and leadership in fungal research.
- Detailed guidance on allowable costs, including disability support, overseas allowances, and public engagement.
- Assessment criteria include research quality, applicant skills, team composition, and research environment.
This program aims to advance knowledge of fungal adaptation biology with a strong health impact focus, fostering innovation and collaboration in an underserved research area.
