Research Innovation Fund

Find out more about the Pancreatic Cancer UK Research Innovation Fund and how you can apply.

The aim of the Pancreatic Cancer UK Research Innovation Fund is to encourage and support truly unique and innovative research into the causes, treatment and detection of pancreatic cancer and the support for those with it.

The seed funding scheme will provide short-term investment to address research questions and hypotheses that are truly innovative in their objectives and/or means of delivery. The focus of the work can be in any field or area of research which, in short or long term, may one day improve the quality of life of people with pancreatic cancer. The proposed studies should be underpinned by rigorous methodological approaches, world class research expertise and high quality research facilities.

Key details


  • The lead applicant and proposed project must be based in the UK, at a recognised not-for-profit research organisation.
  • Applications from early/mid-career researchers as lead applicants or co-investigators are welcome but must be supported by a supervisor.
  • Maximum size of award: £100,000
  • Duration: 12-18 months

Key dates


Open for applications – Monday 2nd October 2023

Deadline for applications – 1pm, Thursday 14th December 2023

Applicants informed of outcome – April 2024

Before you apply


All applicants are strongly encouraged to refer to the Guidance for Applicants and FAQs before completing their application. Specifically, applicants should ensure that their proposal aligns with Pancreatic Cancer UK’s Statement of Innovation included at the start of the ‘Guidance for Applicants’ document.

All potential applicants and their Host Institutions should ensure that they have also reviewed Pancreatic Cancer UK’s Terms and Conditions, which set out the standard terms applicable to Research Innovation Fund grants funded by Pancreatic Cancer UK.

The lead applicant and proposed project must be based in the UK, at a recognised not-for-profit research organisation, such as university, hospital, or similar institution. The application should be submitted by one lead applicant with a strong track record in conducting research who will be the person responsible for the direction of the team. We will only accept one application from each lead applicant. Applications from early/mid-career researchers as lead applicants or co-investigators responsible for the delivery of the work are welcome but must be supported by a supervisor deemed an expert in their field.

Applicants should be aware that their proposals will also be reviewed by people with lived experience of pancreatic cancer and are therefore strongly encouraged to demonstrate how they have already/intend to involve people with lived experience in the development and delivery of their work. At Pancreatic Cancer UK, we have a fantastic Research Involvement Network (RIN) made up of over 500 individuals that have been affected by pancreatic cancer including patients, carers, loved ones and survivors. They give valuable insight and help to ensure that research is centred around the needs of patients. If you would like members of RIN to help shape your application you can find out more about how to do this here. Please get in touch with the Research Team as soon as possible if you would like to discuss this further or if you have any questions.

How to apply


To submit your application for funding, please complete the Research Proposal Template and email it to research@pancreaticcancer.org.uk before the application deadline.

All applications for funding will be subject to a rigorous review process as detailed in our guidance notes for applicants. Final funding recommendations will be made by our international Scientific Advisory Board.

If you have any questions or queries about the application process, we are more than happy to help or advise you. So please don’t hesitate to contact us on research@pancreaticcancer.org.uk.