Expanding Theories Awards

These projects should build on initial proof of concept work so it can be developed into larger projects.

Key Dates:

2019 Grant call 1

Call open: 07 January 2019
Application deadline: 18 March 2019
Funding decision: September 2019

2019 Grant call 2

Call open: 24 June 2019
Application deadline: 02 Sept 2019
Funding decision: March 2020

Purpose and scope

Funding of up to £60,000 per year, for up to 2 years can be requested.

This scheme supports pilot studies that explore and develop novel concepts that may eventually lead to significant improvements in clinical outcomes, including quality of life, for people with brain tumours.

We also welcome proposals that explore innovative approaches that could fundamentally change our understanding, diagnosis, and/or management of brain tumours.

This scheme aims to allow the generation of sufficient data to support applications for larger scale projects to national/international funding organisations.

Public and patient involvement

To obtain input from those affected by brain tumours, we strongly recommend that applicants access our Research Involvement Network (RIN) for public and patient involvement. In order to receive feedback from the RIN, please allow for a minimum of 3 weeks turnaround time.

Eligibility Criteria

All grant applications must focus on at least one of the research priorities highlighted in our research strategy A Cure Can't Wait
This award is open to international researchers, but applications including a UK collaborator will be looked on favourably
The Lead Applicant must hold an employment contract beyond the period of the grant
Proposals must contain scope for future work should the pilot study prove to be successful
Clear explanation of how this could lead to benefits to those affected by brain tumours
All applications must have input from those affected by brain tumours as early as possible, preferably during scoping of the project

Assessment criteria

Proposals should address a key, unresolved area in brain tumour research that could lead to a shift in the concepts or methods that drive the field

Novelty of approach
The project should be exploratory in nature and employ novel concepts, approaches or methods with innovative aims
Expertise of applicants
The applicants must be appropriately trained and well suited to carry out the planned studies. It is not essential for the Lead Applicant to have experience in brain tumour research; however there must be suitable collaborative arrangements with experts in this area
Feasibility of project
The scientific rationale must logically support the proposed study. The proposal must also expect meaningful results to support or reject the original hypothesis within the two year time frame
Potential impact on the field
The project must challenge existing paradigms or develop new methodologies or technologies and have the potential for further investigation

The Brain Tumour Charity is a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) and adheres to its principles of peer review. All applications will be considered by our Biomedical Scientific Advisory Board (Biomedical SAB) alongside lay representatives of people affected by brain tumours.

Please read the following documents before applying for funding

Grant conditions - PDF

These grant conditions, together with the grant award letter, set out the terms and conditions on which we make a grant to the host institution and grantholder.

Finance guidelines - PDF

These guidelines explain which of the costs incurred will be paid for by The Charity

Data protection statement - PDF

This statement details how the information you give us will be processed, used and stored in accordance with data protection legislation

Guidance document - PDF

Please take note of, and allow sufficient time for, the approval steps required to complete the submission process. We cannot guarantee late submissions will be accepted.

Applying for this grant

Applications must be submitted online through our CC Grants Managements portal:

Apply here

Decisions will be made within eight weeks following the receipt of applications.

Further information

If you would like to discuss project ideas or require any additional information, please contact the Research Team.
E-mail: research@thebraintumourcharity.org
Phone: +44 (0) 1252 418190