Highlight notices are calls for proposals that answer a specific research question. Below are details of current research highlight notices and how to apply.
Improving the understanding of Diabetes in underserved communities to improve targeted interventions and reduce health inequalities
This highlight notice builds on a previous call focused on the broad causes and impacts of health inequalities in diabetes, and now focuses on three specific areas where targeted, community-informed research can drive meaningful impact:
- Better understanding of Diabetes in different ethnic groups
- Physical activity to help reduce diabetes inequalities
- Supporting women with Diabetes across all life stages
Applications which are co-led by people with diabetes/community organisations/researchers from underserved groups are strongly encouraged.
A plain English summary and detailed highlight notice is included below.
Leveraging the insights of children and young people with Type 1 Diabetes to shape research
Diabetes UK welcomes applications for research that addresses priority areas identified by children and adolescents living with type 1 diabetes. These areas were established through direct conversations with children and adolescents aged 6–17 from across the UK, reflecting the issues they most want research to explore. Researchers are therefore encouraged to propose appropriate methodologies and study designs to address the following priority areas:
- Improving tech like CGMs and insulin pumps
- Looking after emotional wellbeing
- Helping with life’s big changes
- Supporting healthy eating and activity
- Ensuring that schools are supportive
Applications from multidisciplinary teams with relevant expertise and, where appropriate, partnerships with industry and technology developers are welcomed.
Applicants are encouraged to show evidence of substantial patient and public involvement in all stages of the development and delivery of their project.
A plain English summary and detailed highlight notice is included below.
How to apply
Applications to highlight notices are included in Diabetes UK project grants rounds which run twice per year.
ELIGIBILITY
The Principal Investigator (PI) will usually have a tenured post or be able to demonstrate that they will have a salary for the lifetime of the grant.
VALUE AND DURATION
Up to £500,000 for up to five years.
KEY DATES
Next deadline: 1 December 2025
Funding decision: May 2026