Alzheimer’s Research UK is inviting expressions of interest (EOIs) to lead ambitious, science-led networks that will connect and strengthen dementia research.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of collaboration in dementia research by bringing together researchers around shared scientific priorities.
About the call
We are looking to support innovative, research-led networks that:
- Unite researchers across disciplines, institutions, and career stages
- Address key gaps or opportunities in dementia research
- Foster collaboration, skills development, and research culture
- Deliver impactful, nationwide (and potentially international) activity
What we’re offering
Successful networks will receive funding from January 2027 to support:
- Research and coordination roles (including salaries)
- Collaborative activities and events
- Travel and networking
- Other essential running costs
Who can apply
You can apply as a lead if you:
- Are a postdoctoral researcher or above
- Are active in biomedical or clinical dementia research
- Are based at a UK research organisation, and are eligible to apply per your institutional policies
What to include in your EOI
Your submission should outline:
- A clear and compelling Network theme
- Planned activities and their expected impact
- Your vision for building a Network
- A proposed leadership team (including ECR representation, PPIE and EDI leads)
Apply now
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How many teams will be awarded funding, and how much funding should I budget for when filling out the form?
We are looking to support ambitious and innovative Networks with clear potential to strengthen dementia research and research culture.
The Expression of Interest stage will allow us to review proposals holistically and identify a complementary and distinctive set of Networks to invite to full application.
We anticipate making awards of up to £200,000 per year, for up to five years. Larger proposals may still be considered where there is a clear rationale and strong justification for the level of funding requested.
What counts as a theme for a Research Network? Would this be a scientific or development-related focus?
We are looking to support Networks with a clear scientific theme, challenge or capability focus that can connect researchers across disciplines, sectors and career stages.
Strong proposals should demonstrate how the Network will address an unmet need, strategic gap or opportunity in the field, and show clear added value alongside existing mechanisms, partnerships or networks.
What types of research themes will Networks be able to focus on?
Networks should sit within the remit of Alzheimer’s Research UK by focusing on biomedical and/or clinical dementia research, with potential to advance understanding, diagnosis, treatment or prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and/or other neurodegenerative diseases.
What roles should be included in a Network leadership team or organising committee?
The structure of each leadership team or organising committee can be shaped by the needs and focus of the individual Network. We strongly encourage inclusive leadership that includes ECR representation, and we would expect Networks to identify PPIE and EDI leads who can contribute to discussions within their Network and connect with other leads.
Join us on Wednesday 12 August at 12pm BST for an information session about Alzheimer’s Research UK’s call for Expressions of Interest to lead a new Dementia Research Network.
Joshua Wright, Senior Research Manager – Engagement at Alzheimer’s Research UK, will introduce the call, explain what ARUK is looking for and answer questions from prospective applicants.
The new Networks will bring researchers together across disciplines, institutions and career stages around a clear scientific theme, challenge or capability. Successful Networks could receive up to £200,000 per year for up to five years, beginning in January 2027.
The session will cover:
- The aims and scope of the call
- Who is eligible to lead a Network
- What makes a strong Network theme and proposal
- Leadership, ECR, PPIE and EDI expectations
- Funding and eligible activities
- The Expression of Interest and selection process
There will also be an opportunity to put your questions directly to Joshua during the live Q&A.
Visit funding web page
(https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/research/for-researchers/grant-schemes/new-dementia-research-network-expression-of-interest/)
