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NC3Rs 3Rs Research Funding Scheme

Scientist with microscope The NC3Rs invites grant applications from UK establishments for research which will advance knowledge and application of the 3Rs and laboratory animal welfare.


Proposals may complement existing research or may be made in their own right. Proposals relevant to any area of medical, biological or veterinary research or testing can be considered and applications that integrate a range of disciplines are welcomed. A grant may be awarded for any period of up to three years.

The financial support available should be tailored by the scientific needs of the proposal. Requests for funding can include:

  • The salary of the Principal Investigator and co-investigators for up to three years
  • Support for additional research, technical or other posts
  • Consumables
  • Equipment
  • Travel costs
  • Data archiving, data sharing and dissemination costs

In line with the Research Councils, applications should be submitted under the Full Economic Costing (FEC) model. For practical reasons the NC3Rs uses the MRC electronic application and assessment system.

The next deadline for applications is 25 February 2009. See the timescale for further details.

In addition to response mode, there is one Priority for funding in 2009 -

This is a joint priority with BBSRC and has an obligatory Expression of Interest phase, which has a deadline of 17 October 2008.

Click here to see research projects already funded by the NC3Rs.