Project grants
We want to fund groundbreaking research to tackle the major unanswered questions and challenges in Parkinson's research.
The next round of funding will be opening in October 2026.
We currently have some applications under review, where invited applicants have a deadline of Wednesday 8 April 2026 by 4pm to submit their full proposals.
What type of project are we looking for?
We fund projects up to a maximum of 36 months designed to answer a single, or small group, of Parkinson's research questions. Such as projects:
- to better understand the causes of Parkinson’s and Parkinson’s like disorders (such as MSA and PSP).
- to investigate the potential links between Parkinson’s and other conditions, like diabetes.
- to discover new drugs or investigate biomarkers.
- that involve cohort studies or pilot clinical trials.
Project grants are usually funded up to £400,000, with an average award of £260,000.
Virtual workshop about applying for a project grant
Wednesday 30 September 2026, on Zoom.
- Hear from a recently successful applicant.
- Get top tips from our lay and scientific reviewers.
- Information on meaningful patient and public involvement (PPI) and equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
How to apply?
- Eligibility: Must be based at a UK university or research institute, NHS Trust, or statutory social care organisation. Co-applicants and collaborators can be based at institutions outside the UK or at pharmaceutical or biotech companies.
- Inclusion: We actively encourage applications from all sections of the community, regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or religion.
- Fill in the application form: Applications are not currently open but will be done through our online application system.
- Need support? Get in touch with our Research Grants Team.
What do we expect from applicants?
All applicants are expected to work with people with lived experience of Parkinson’s throughout the research process and in the development of their application.
We also expect applicants to have considered equity, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of research, as we strive for equity for everyone who lives with Parkinson’s, and the people in their lives. We particularly have guidance for researchers on ethnicity and inclusion.
How are applications reviewed?
All preproposal applications are independently reviewed by three scientific members of our College of Experts. Full applications are reviewed again by our College of Experts scientific members alongside lay grant reviewers with lived experience of Parkinson’s.
What was the success rate for 2025 applications?
38 preproposals were submitted, resulting in 21 full application invitations and 6 applications recommended for funding.
Recently funded projects
We support a range of research, from better understanding freezing as a symptom of Parkinson's to using brain imaging for earlier detection of the condition.
Get updates on grants
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