UKRI announces new Global Talent Fund offering institutional grants to selected UK research organisations
An ambitious new scheme has been launched to attract the world’s best researchers and research teams to live and work in the UK. Some £54m is being made available as institutional grants over the next five years, beginning with this financial year (2025-26).
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UK Research and Investment (UKRI) says the UK is already at the forefront of international collaboration and innovation, and has a world-renowned research culture. Through the new funding, the aim is to strengthen research capacity and enhance its long-term sustainability.
The money is being provided by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), in partnership with UKRI. Institutional grants are expected to be allocated to some 10 research organisations across the country, based on assessment of their strengths in successfully receiving and using competitive international funding, as well as in and recruiting and retaining international researchers.
The successful recipients will be able to use Global Talent Fund money to rapidly recruit and embed international research talent, and provide the needed resources for long-term programme development, in projects that deliver on priority sectors identified in the government’s industrial strategy.
The funding can be used to cover 100% of eligible costs, including expenses from relocation and research. By covering the full visa costs for researchers and their dependants, the scheme aims to remove the financial and administrative burdens that often pose significant barriers to relocation.
There is no requirement for match funding. However, through the scheme the awarded organisations will be encouraged to form partnerships, at their discretion, with UK universities, public sector research organisations, other funders and commercial organisations.
Professor Christopher Smith, International Champion at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), says: ‘This government-funded initiative sends a powerful message: the UK is open to the world’s best researchers, and we are ready to invest in their success. It will be a complementary part of the broad array of support available across the UK research system from UKRI programmes to Horizon Europe association, National Academy fellowships, and more.
‘By providing generous financial support, including full relocation and research costs, and using the Global Talent visa as a key enabler, we are creating a welcoming, flexible, and well-resourced environment where international talent can thrive. This fund is a clear expression of our commitment to global collaboration and to maintaining the UK’s status as a vibrant, inclusive, and highly respected research destination.’
Lord Vallance, Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation, adds: ‘Scientific excellence so often relies on international collaboration and the Global Talent Fund, will help carefully selected participating institutes with proven track records to attract outstanding researchers from across the globe to the UK’s world class research ecosystem.
‘By removing practical barriers around relocation challenges and costs, and through the delivery of a raft of new fellowships from both inside and outside of government, we are making it easier for talented researchers to build their future here and in turn drive groundbreaking discoveries that attract further investment, helping us deliver on our Plan for Change.’
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