UKRI’s individual eligibility policy aims to make it simpler and fairer for people to apply for funding. The policy focuses on individuals’ talent, skills and capability rather than formal qualifications, and recognises expertise developed through academic and non-academic routes. This enables people from diverse backgrounds to apply, for example individuals based in non-academic organisations or people without a PhD.
Who the policy applies to
The policy applies to applicants (project leads and project co-leads) applying to standard funding opportunities through the UKRI Funding Service. Some funding opportunities may have different requirements. You should check the specific opportunity for full details.
Eligibility for project lead and project co-lead roles is assessed on whether an individual can clearly demonstrate the capability needed for the aims and delivery of the project. Where a funding opportunity allows international project co-leads refer to UKRI project co-lead (international) policy.
This guidance does not apply to Innovate UK or Research England.
Applicant suitability
The broader scope does not mean that all individuals will be appropriate applicants for every funding opportunity. Applications should be submitted selectively to ensure we can support the strongest and most impactful research and innovation.
Applicants must:
- demonstrate the expertise, skills and capability to deliver the proposed application
- show how they will achieve the proposed outcomes, including appropriate project management, leadership and knowledge
Suitability is assessed against the assessment criteria, and in alignment with the ‘what we’re looking for’ requirements in the funding opportunity.
Relationship with an organisation
Applicants must be based at a research organisation eligible for UKRI funding. You will need to have either a contract or substantial relationship with the organisation.
Employment contract
Applicants must hold a legally binding contract of employment with the submitting organisation before the grant starts. The contract may be:
- full or part-time
- open-ended or fixed-term
For fixed term contracts, the organisation confirms that the contract will last:
- at least until the end date of the grant (for project leads)
- until the final day the individual is supported by the grant (for project co-leads)
Substantial relationship
If not employed, applicants must have an existing and ongoing substantial relationship that demonstrates a formal commitment (for example, emeritus or an honorary position).
They must be able to conduct research as if they were an employee, including access to management and infrastructure support.
Residency criteria
Applicants must be resident in the UK at the time of application or planning to be resident for their duration of the project. Residency is defined by the UK Government guidelines.
Exceptions are if the applicant:
- has a contract with a UK-owned organisation but whose campus is based overseas
- is applying to a funding opportunity that specifies overseas applicants are eligible
- resides in the Republic of Ireland but is employed by an eligible organisation in Northern Ireland
Responsibilities of your organisation
The submitting organisation is responsible for ensuring:
- organisational eligibility for the specific opportunity
- that the project lead and project co-lead are both suitable and eligible, in line with requirements to receive UKRI funding
- the proper financial management of grants as per the UKRI FEC grant terms and conditions
Last updated: 5 May 2026