Wellcome and the UK’s NIHR have launched a major funding initiative aimed at tackling infectious diseases in the world’s most affected regions.
The “Infectious Disease Clinical Trial Award” seeks to optimize existing medical treatments to save lives in low- and middle-income countries.
This call prioritizes randomized controlled trials that turn licensed vaccines and therapeutics into more effective tools for public health. Successful projects will generate the hard evidence needed to update international policy and clinical guidelines.
Funding and benefits
Individual grants range from a substantial £1 million to £8 million, covering research projects lasting between three and five years. Wellcome expects to distribute these funds among 8 to 12 highly competitive winning teams.
Beyond the raw research costs, the award covers salaries, materials, and equipment needed to conduct large-scale trials. It even supports visa costs and disability-related adjustments to ensure a supportive work environment for all staff.
The award also places a heavy emphasis on capacity building, providing funds to enhance laboratory capabilities and train researchers in local settings. This ensures that the scientific expertise remains in the communities where the research is conducted.
Application requirements and eligibility
This opportunity is reserved for transdisciplinary teams led by mid-career or established researchers based in Africa, South Asia, or South-East Asia.
At least half of the co-applicants must also reside within these specific geographic regions.
Proposals must target specific health threats, including tuberculosis, leprosy, dengue, or invasive fungal and bacterial infections.
Research must involve licensed interventions and show a clear path toward community impact and equitable access.
Teams are required to demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in their design and practice.
The selection committee will look for environments where researchers from all backgrounds are supported to thrive.
Applicants must also show how they will engage with public health stakeholders and local communities throughout the life of the project.
This includes creating dissemination plans that share findings with those who influence decision-making.
Deadline
Aspiring researchers must submit their final applications through the Wellcome Funding platform by 15:00 BST on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Late entries will not be accepted, and successful applicants will be notified of the final outcome in September 2026.
To apply, visit the Wellcome call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
