Rosetrees NEXT Award (New Exceptional Transformational Award) 2026

The Rosetrees NEXT Award is a large translational research award aimed at propelling one exceptional researcher toward a breakthrough in a chosen disease area. It supports high-risk, high-reward projects in therapeutics, devices, diagnostics, digital health, and cell and regenerative medicine that have proof-of-concept data and clear pathways toward clinical or market adoption. The award funds a project team and associated directly incurred costs with annual reviews and a major gate at Year 3 for potential continuation funding. Funding is structured over 3–5 years with a formal Year 3 review and potential additional funding for years 4–5.

Project funding up to £750,000 over 3–5 years; salary support for project staff; consumables and directly incurred costs; limited small equipment and laptops; training allowance; possible travel costs (subject to co-funding); open access publication costs during grant period.

The principal applicant must hold a PhD (or equivalent) and usually a tenured post or demonstrate secured salary support for the duration of the grant; they must have a strong publication record, track record of competitive funding and experience managing grants and delivering research studies. Applicants should be recognised research leaders with a capable team and the ability to deliver translational, patient-focused impact.

Two-stage process: Stage 1 expression of interest via a preliminary form on the Flexigrant portal (preliminary window 2026-03-30 to 2026-06-08). Institutions may submit one application only; shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal (full proposals invited in July 2026, date TBC) and selected applicants will be interviewed.