Medical Research UK is the independent charity of the Medical Research Council (MRC). Their history (formerly operating as the Medical Research Foundation) dates back more than 100 years, when medical research was first focused on tackling major public health challenges.
Today the charity funds research into neglected health conditions, because there are still too many conditions affecting millions of us where research is critically underfunded.
By identifying critical blind spots and investing in the right research, Medical Research UK drives progress to plug gaps in medical knowledge. Helping to translate that research into policy and practice, they make sure it has a real impact on people’s lives.
Medical Research UK is a movement, powered by researchers, health professionals, partners and supporters. Together, they’re building a fairer and more equitable medical future, for every mind and every body.
Research funded by Medical Research UK
Through the current Medical Research UK strategy, they have pledged to invest at least £25 million in new research between 2024 and 2029, focusing on:
- improving the lives of children and young people
- addressing neglected areas of mental health
- responding to emerging threats, including the health impacts of climate change
Medical Research UK exists because nobody should face a health condition without clarity and hope.
Read the full strategy to find out more.
Get involved
Thanks to support from the public, research funded by Medical Research UK has changed lives. But much more needs to be done to build a fairer and more equitable medical future.
Find out more about our work and how you can get involved.
Make a donation to Medical Research UK.
Contact Medical Research UK
Email: contact@medicalresearchuk.org
Telephone: 020 4581 2400
You can also keep up to date with Medical Research UK on LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky, Facebook and YouTube.
Last updated: 29 September 2026