Project Grants

These provide support for research projects designed to answer a single question or a small group of related questions. Such questions must be directed towards furthering the understanding of MS and/or developing effective treatments for the condition. Applications should be hypothesis driven. 

Innovative Awards

These provide support for short term, small-scale projects to allow researchers to explore new ideas in MS research that might merit further support after some development. Innovative awards are capped at £40k and support provided for a maximum of 12 months. 

PhD Studentships

These are designed to encourage the best science graduates to embark on research careers in MS. Successful applicants will be able to delay the start of the studentship to coincide with the academic year.

In order to attract the best candidates, the Society offers generous stipends, which mirror those of the Wellcome Trust. Stipend rates for studentships awarded in 2008 are:

Outside London:
Year 1: £17,442
Year 2: £18,955
Year 3: £20,600

London:
Year 1: £19,508
Year 2: £21,200
Year 3: £23,039

Please note applications should always be made by the proposed supervisor. It is not necessary to apply naming a student. However, the appointment of the PhD student is subject to approval by the Chair of the relevant Grant Review Panel, although this may be after a studentship award is made.

Current PhD studentships:

At the bench: PhD Profiles 

Junior Research Fellowships

Junior Fellowships are aimed at attracting and retaining talented young scientists in MS research. They also form part of a staged career structure for outstanding MS researchers. They provide an opportunity to progress towards higher-level appointments.

These awards are made to post-doctoral graduates in the early stages of their careers. They aim to provide training in the principles and practice of academic research, through a time-limited research project related to MS, under the direct supervision of senior and experienced researchers.

Applicants should be looking to undertake the post at a UK-based institution.
 

Senior Research Fellowships

Senior Fellowships are awarded to outstanding scientists committed to a research career in MS who do not hold an established academic post. Such awards can be made to researchers with a proven ability for original research in the field of MS as recognised by a portfolio of high quality publications and an exceptional reputation and international standing. Senior fellowships will not only allow the development of an independent MS research programme but will also guarantee appointment to the academic staff of the host institution at the end of the award.

Applicants should be looking to undertake the post at a UK-based institution. 

Please note that Junior and Senior Research Fellowships have been reinstated in 2008.
 

To apply:

Email the MS Society Research team

Please state which application pack you require:

Award type:

Evolving MS Services
Innovative Award (1 year)
PhD Studentship
Project grant
Junior Research Fellowship
Senior Research Fellowship

Further information:

2008 Grant Submission Timetable

Grant administration process 2008