Budding MND researchers are being provided with a vital stepping-stone thanks to the MND Association and MND Scotland.  

A new Pre-Fellowship scheme, designed to bridge a funding gap, is now open to early career researchers. The four awards available will allow researchers to gather initial data required to demonstrate the potential of their research for fellowship applications. A researcher awarded a Pre-Fellowship will then be in position to apply for longer-term fellowships in MND research. 

The Pre-Fellowship scheme is funded by MND Association and administered by MND Scotland, and will be part of a new national virtual MND research institute, which is currently in development. The institute was kick-started by a £4.25 million investment from government funders and charities, including MND Scotland, and is set to progress after securing significant funding from the UK Government, following the United to End MND campaign.

This new scheme forms part of the new institute’s objective to train future leaders in MND research by providing funding and a collaborative research environment, to encourage early career scientists to continue their training and careers in MND research. 

Dr Jane Haley, Director of Research, MND Scotland said: “I am delighted that MND Scotland is working with the MND Association to provide support for this new funding scheme. This will attract early stage clinical and non-clinical researchers into MND at an exciting time, as they will join MND researchers across the UK in a new virtual institute, with everyone working to bring us closer to meaningful treatments and a cure.” 

To find out more about how to apply for these Pre-Fellowships click here, or to support vital MND research projects please donate today.