BBSRC/NC3Rs joint call: development of next generation non-animal technologies

Non-animal technologies include complex 3D tissue models, organ-on-chips / microphysiological systems, stem cell platforms, and in silico / computational tools. These technologies provide an alternative and often improved option to the use of animal models in terms of cost and physiological relevance. They also offer advanced solutions for modelling human and animal biology and predicting interactions to external challenge.

The BBSRC and NC3Rs have previously collaborated on the use of non-animal technologies for advancing predictive biology as part of a UK cross-funder initiative. The new joint call is intended to build on this foundation as well as the BBSRC’s recent work with the Physiological Society on the use of model systems. The NC3Rs has a long track record of supporting the development of non-animal technologies for a range of scientific purposes through research funding and its innovation programme CRACK IT Challenges.

The overall aim of this £4M call from the BBSRC and NC3Rs is to support proposals that:

1. Develop the next generation of non-animal technologies that mimic the physiological environment enabling a whole system/ multi-system approach for discovery and translational science.

Proposals should build upon existing knowledge to develop non-animal technologies that offer advanced solutions for modelling human and animal biology and predicting interactions to external challenge. This next generation of non-animal technology should incorporate a systems approach, that enables the study of intra-organ interactions, microenvironmental factors, or whole systems approaches. This could include addressing biological questions by integrating complex in vitro experiments with computational modelling.

2. Enhance the capacity and confidence in non-animal technologies.

Proposals should support a step-change in current non-animal technologies in aspects such as physiological relevance and predictivity, throughput, and breadth of application to facilitate new research discoveries and translational approaches. Applications that include comparative analyses of different models/technologies and/or validation and feasibility or reproducibility studies are in scope.

3. Establish partnerships between academia, the SME sector, and industry.

Proposals with an industrial partner are strongly encouraged to foster collaborations, improve understanding of cross-sector requirements, and bridge the gap between development, proof-of-concept and scale-up and help drive the development and commercialisation of non-animal technologies. It is envisaged that there will be substantial in-kind and/or financial contribution from a business partner.

Proposals must fall within the BBSRC’s remit to qualify for funding. The research supported should have the realistic possibility of replacing the use of specific in vivo models or animal studies in line with the NC3Rs mission.

Example research areas for the development of non-animal technologies include enabling:

• The mechanistic understanding of ageing across the life-course.
• The development and testing of novel veterinary vaccines.
• A more accurate study of microbial diversity and functions of the microbiota on both specific organs and whole systems.
• The study of complex neurological pathways and systems across the life-course.

These examples are provided to help you develop your ideas. These should not lead or limit the scope and ambition of planned applications.

The full economic cost of your project can be up to £250k. The BBSRC and NC3Rs will fund 80% of the full economic cost. Projects can run up to 24 months.

Standard eligibility criteria apply. Applicants from eligible UK-based organisations are invited in accordance with standard UKRI practice.

Organisations normally eligible for UKRI funding include:

• Higher education institutions
• Eligible independent research organisations (IROs)
• Public sector research establishments
• UKRI-funded laboratories and facilities

Applications from organisations or individuals that are not eligible will be not be considered by the assessment panel.

Applicants are advised to read and refer to the Application guidance, which contains more detailed information on submitting an application.

We use the Research Councils' joint electronic submission system (Je-S) and applications are processed by the RCUK Shared Business Services. Completed proposals should be submitted through Je-S. 

Proposals will be assessed by an expert panel of senior independent academics and appropriate stakeholders. Applications will not be sent for external peer review. There will be no Principal Investigator rebuttal stage. 

Your application will be assessed against the criteria for assessment as outlined below. 

• Scientific and technical excellence 

• Impact, including potential for the replacement of animal use, potential to enhance capacity and drive uptake and build a foundation for further investment 

• Strategic value 

• Timeliness 

• Capability to deliver 

A triage process will occur prior to the Panel meeting. Applications will be reviewed by the Panel to identify those which are not competitive.  

Please note the Panel assessment criteria which can be found below. 

Your case for support should include sufficient details so that it can be assessed by scientists with relevant, but not necessarily specialist, expertise. 

Application guidance

Assessment criteria

Terms and conditions