Funding is available for researchers in the UK and Ireland in the field of health inequalities relating to breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Now is a charitable organisation set up in 1988 with the objective of researching a cure for breast cancer. It works to be a leading specialist in breast cancer research across the UK and Ireland, making a significant impact on breast cancer for the benefit of patients.

Breast Cancer Now offers Equity and Wellbeing grants to support innovative research addressing public health, physical, mental and emotional wellbeing and inequalities that are experienced in breast cancer. The scheme specifically focuses on inequities in breast cancer and supports research that increases access and improves health by reducing variation in access and outcomes.

Projects must show clear relevance to breast cancer and should either address health inequalities faced by under-represented groups or demonstrate inclusivity across the population. All proposals must align with Breast Cancer Now’s strategy. Proposals should also demonstrate close and extensive involvement of the group being researched in the design, delivery and dissemination of the research.

The scheme supports project grants as well as PhD studentships within the scheme’s scope to encourage new and highly qualified science graduates to embark on a career of breast cancer research.

Applications are welcomed from lead investigators who have conducted independent research in the field of breast cancer or are experienced researchers in a related field. Applicants may be new to breast cancer research, but the proposed team must include people with relevant breast cancer expertise. Applications from talented early career researchers are particularly encouraged.

Applicants must be based at a recognised university, research institution, or NHS trust in the UK or Ireland.

The value of project grants may vary, and funds will cover staff salary, research expenses, and essential equipment. Applications requesting more than £400,000 may be considered, but applicants should contact the charity in the first instance before applying. Cost and value for money and the funds available for each round will be taken into account when making grant decisions.

Additionally, PhD studentships can last for three or four years and can cover student stipend, student fees, college fees (where applicable), research expenses and essential equipment. The total amount requested must not exceed £171,500. This includes £2,500 for conference costs.