New Professional Research Grant

For members who are newly appointed professionals - including lecturers, researchers, industry scientists, or clinical specialists - seeking support to establish or advance their applied microbiology work.

This grant is designed to support the research of newly appointed lecturers, investigators, assistant professors, and assistant researchers in sustainable applied microbiology. This grant aims to pump-prime innovative microbiological research that aligns with AMI's strategic goals, particularly focusing on contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

We warmly encourage applications from members based in low and low-middle income countries (LMICs). As part of AMI’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, one award per funding cycle is reserved for applicants based in LMICs.

Eligibility

Members in their first professional appointment in academia, industry, clinical practice, or applied research.
Applicants must be within the first three years of starting this position at the time of application.
Open to AMI Full, Fellow or Associate Members with a minimum of 13 months of continuous membership.
This grant cannot be used to fund a project or research activity that already has financial support from another source (£30,000+).
Applicants must not have previously received this award.
Preference will be given to projects demonstrating strong potential for practical, societal, or environmental benefit.

Grant Details and Financial Support

Up to £10,000 available for successful applicants to initiate or enhance a new project.
Payments are made directly to the recipient’s institution or organisation.
Reimbursement claims should be submitted every 3–4 months and must be completed within 24 months of the project start date. Claims made after this period will not be paid.

Application Requirements

A clear, focused project proposal outlining aims, methods, and relevance to applied microbiology.
A brief statement of career context, describing the applicant’s new appointment and how this grant will support their professional development.

Selection Criteria

Alignment with AMI’s strategic objectives and the UNSDGs.
Innovation and potential for practical application or impact.
Feasibility and quality of the proposed project.
Evidence of the applicant’s potential for continued professional growth.

Post-Award Requirements

Submission of annual progress updates and a final report upon project completion.
Engagement with AMI communication channels — e.g. contributing to The Microbiologist, presenting a webinar, or sharing outcomes through AMI events.
Submission of at least one paper to Sustainable Microbiology (SMI) — successful applicants receive one APC waiver for publication.
Acknowledgement of AMI’s support in all project outputs and communications.

Application Process

Application deadline: 30th April annually (23:59 BST)
Applicants will be notified of the decision within four to six weeks after the deadline (i.e. from June 11)

The application window is currently closed for this grant. It will reopen in January 2026.