Radiobiology highlight notice
The MRC's Molecular and Cellular Medicine Board (MCMB) wishes to encourage innovative, high quality, investigator-initiated research proposals in radiobiology relevant to human health. While the MRC already supports some research in this area, we now wish to encourage a wider range of applications relevant to medical research. Research proposals may cover the spectrum of research from studies which explore important cellular and molecular mechanisms, through to more translational medical research that would underpin the development of new health interventions.
The Board would particularly welcome applications on the following topics:
- Determination of the mechanisms of radiation injury at the molecular, cellular, tissue and organ levels
- Research into the mechanisms of radiation carcinogenesis: individual susceptibility and gene-environment interactions; possible interactions with other carcinogenic agents
- Studies of long term health effects of radiation exposure, particularly radiotherapy treatment
- Development of novel biological approaches for radioprotection and/or treatment of radiation damage
- Development and validation of biomarkers and new therapeutic approaches
Assessment
In addition to the general criteria for assessment, applicants should take account of the following factors:
- Applications must show relevance to human health
- Any multi-disciplinary applications will generally be expected to contain substantive collaboration between disciplines
- Hypothesis-driven research proposals, aimed at achieving specific endpoints, are more likely to be successful.
Application process and schedule
Applications are invited through the normal MRC funding schemes and will be considered at the regular MCMB Board meetings. These will be in competition with other applications received, but the Board will be mindful of the importance of this area.
- Guidance on the application process and assessment criteria for programme grants
- Guidance on the application process and assessment criteria for research grants
- Applications involving an industrial partner are welcomed through our MRC Industry Collaboration Award scheme.
Applications which fall partly outside the MRC’s remit can be funded in partnership with BBSRC and EPSRC. Cross-Council applications will be assigned a lead Council, which will draw on expertise from across Councils to take a single funding decision.
The MRC recognises the importance of collaborating with leading groups internationally, and would particularly like to encourage applications of this type.
Contact and guidance
Applicants who are thinking of submitting a proposal under this highlight are advised to contact:
Dr Rhoswyn Walker
Email: rhoswyn.walker@headoffice.mrc.ac.uk
Telephone: 020 7395 2228
Prospective applicants may find it helpful to browse the MRC Research Portfolio before making an application.
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