UKRI and BBSRC relaunch research grant opportunities with always open system to support innovation and flexibility

Credit: Sean Anthony Eddy, E+ via Getty Images

(IN BRIEF) The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council has reopened its applicant-led funding opportunities following a temporary pause to implement a new always open funding model. The BBSRC new investigator research grant and standard research grant are once again available, allowing researchers to submit proposals at any time without fixed deadlines. This approach, introduced as part of a wider UK Research and Innovation initiative, is designed to improve flexibility, reduce pressure on applicants, and ensure a smoother flow of applications and peer review. The move represents a broader shift in funding strategy, with additional programmes expected to launch in support of UKRI’s long-term research priorities.

(PRESS RELEASE) SWINDON, 1-May-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) has reopened its applicant-led funding schemes, marking the completion of a temporary pause introduced to support the transition to a new “always open” funding model.

The reopening restores access to two key funding opportunities: the BBSRC new investigator research grant and the BBSRC standard research grant. These schemes had been temporarily suspended while updates were implemented to modernise the application process and align with a more flexible funding structure.

The changes form part of a broader initiative led by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), which is moving away from fixed submission deadlines toward a continuous application system. Under this approach, researchers can submit proposals at any time, allowing for a more balanced flow of applications and improved availability of peer reviewers.

By adopting an always open model, BBSRC aims to make funding more accessible and responsive to the needs of the research community. The removal of rigid deadlines is expected to ease pressure on applicants while encouraging a steady pipeline of high-quality proposals throughout the year.

Jef Grainger, Associate Director for Science Strategy at BBSRC, highlighted that the shift represents a significant improvement in how applicant-led funding is delivered. He noted that reopening all paused schemes ensures researchers can once again access these opportunities without interruption.

The transition also signals a wider evolution in funding strategy, with UKRI preparing to introduce additional programmes aligned with its strategic priorities. Alongside the applicant-led schemes, these initiatives will support the organisation’s mission by enabling researchers to pursue innovative ideas as they arise, rather than being constrained by fixed funding cycles.

With the relaunch of these opportunities, BBSRC reinforces its commitment to supporting scientific research through more flexible, efficient, and accessible funding mechanisms.

Media Contacts:

Email: press@ukri.org
Phone: 01793 298 902

SOURCE: UKRI