BBSRC ICURe Explore is open to research teams in all UK universities, BBSRC-funded institutes and approved public sector research enterprises.
The research underpinning the bioscience innovation, products or services being carried forward for market exploration by the team must be building on a previous BBSRC or other UKRI grant.
For the purpose of this funding opportunity, we will also accept applications from researchers and academic innovators who are building on peer-reviewed research grants awarded by Kidney Research UK and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
The objective of this pilot is to diversify the pipeline of academically validated research ideas to maximise the bio innovation potential of the UK.
Teams
BBSRC ICURe Explore teams are composed of four individuals:
Entrepreneurial lead
Any research or technical research staff member who receives their salary or stipend from an eligible university, public sector research enterprises or institute. This includes, but is not limited to:
- PhD students
- technicians
- postdoctoral research associates
- fellowship and group leader positions
This individual must be able to commit full-time for the duration of the programme starting the week of the bootcamp, and have approval of their institute, organisation or funder.
Associated science advisor
A researcher who can provide intellectual support to the entrepreneurial lead throughout the course of the programme. For example, an interdisciplinary project may require input from outside the research group.
Technology transfer representative or professional
An individual from the team, either from or contracted to the research organisation, leading on the commercialisation of the intellectual asset with appropriate technology transfer expertise.
This individual must be able to:
- attend essential bootcamp sessions as well as the options roundabout
- provide support for the entrepreneurial lead and team during the programme
- provide continued support for further commercialisation activity following the programmes conclusion
Business adviser
A motivated individual from a relevant industrial sector who can offer expert guidance and support. Teams are strongly encouraged to name a business adviser in their application. Please contact the ICURe administration team if identifying a suitable advisor is a barrier. Teams are responsible for any agreements or financial arrangements that may be needed with their business advisers.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
We are committed to improving diversity across our programmes and are actively seeking applications from under-represented groups, including women, people of colour, those living with disabilities and those from the LGBTQI+ communities.
We also actively encourage applications led by non-Russell Group universities.
The spread across different target market sectors will also be considered when selecting applications to ensure broad portfolio coverage.
