Funding for PhD studentships and project grants (including two- to three-year project grants and shorter, proof-of-principle projects of up to one year) that have relevance to one or more types of muscular dystrophy or a related neuromuscular condition. Refer to the list of conditions supported by Muscular Dystrophy UK.
Research should be aimed at increasing understanding of neuromuscular conditions and promoting the development of potential treatments. Such projects may be basic, pre-clinical or clinical projects, but must be in line with MDUK’s Research Strategy.
Also welcome are projects that will have a direct, positive impact on the quality of life of people with neuromuscular conditions or will help to establish best practice in symptom management. This could include, but is not limited to, social or psychological research or projects with a focus on exercise, physiotherapy, fatigue or chronic pain.
ELIGIBILITY
PIs must be based in the UK, but international collaborations are strongly encouraged.
Applications that support early career researchers and PhD students are also strongly encouraged.
Each applicant can submit up to one grant application per grant type outlined below.
VALUE AND DURATION
PhD studentships are for four years and cover stipends (up to UKRI minimum rates), university fees, and consumables (up to £10,000 per year).
Other grants are available in the following forms:
- Project grants lasting between two and three years, covering any combination of salary and consumables up to a maximum of £100,000 per year.
- Shorter grants lasting up to one year (e.g. to show proof of principle in a pilot study) covering up to £30,000 for salary and consumables (apply using the project grant application form, but with less detail than for a full project grant application).
KEY DATES
Deadline: 20 January 2026
More information, including FAQs and how to apply, can be found on the opportunity webpage.