BPNA Seed Corn Research Award
The British Paediatric Neurology Association (BPNA) is thrilled to announce the launch of the BPNA Seed Corn Research Award.
Committed to advancing paediatric neurology through world-class research, education, and professional development, this brand-new research award is designed to support the next generation of research leaders.
If you are an ambitious early career researcher looking to drive clinical breakthroughs, enhance treatment options, or elevate neurological care for children, we want to fund your vision.
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Award Overview & Funding Structure Unlike traditional grants, this award explicitly targets project acceleration by alleviating the burden of research expenses. • Award Value: Up to £10,000 distributed over 1 year. • Leverage Potential: The BPNA is actively engaging external stakeholders to explore match-funding opportunities, potentially doubling the impact of your project. Funding Scope: Non-salary related costs only. Funds are strictly designated for laboratory consumables, specialized equipment, data collection expenses, patient/public involvement, and direct project-related resources. Salary costs, research sessions/PAs, and standard conference travel are not included. |
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Eligibility Criteria We are looking for passionate individuals ready to make a lasting impact on children's neurological health. To apply, you must meet the following criteria: • Membership: Must be a current member of the BPNA. • Career Stage: Open to all trainees/fellows in Paediatric neurology, including pre-doctoral students who have completed significant research work. • Career Trajectory: Applicants must demonstrate a clear intent to become a Paediatric neurologist in the future or prove how they will contribute significantly to the field. |
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Application Requirements A complete application package must be submitted via email to the BPNA Research Committee / Membership Manager. Your submission must include: • The Official Application Form: Fully completed, including an itemised budget breakdown, scientific proposal (Background, Aims, Methodology, PPI, and Impact), an embedded Gantt chart timeline, and all required institutional sign-offs. • Curriculum Vitae (CV): A comprehensive academic and professional CV must be submitted alongside the application (maximum of 2 pages). • Research Alignment & Focus: Your formal research proposal must focus on paediatric neurology. Important Note on Research Priorities: Candidates may be interested in looking into the Top Ten UK research priorities for interventions in childhood neurological disorders for potential subjects to research. However, the subject of your research is not expected to come from these questions; it can be based in any other area of paediatric neurology. |
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Selection & Interview Process Submissions will undergo a rigorous, transparent evaluation process led by a selection committee of senior BPNA experts from the Research Committee and Executive. Applications will be evaluated on scientific merit, innovation, and potential clinical impact. |
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Accountability & Reporting To ensure transparency and track the real-world impact of our funding, award recipients will be required to submit regular progress reports and itemized financial statements. These will be reviewed by the BPNA Chair of Research and Executive Director, with administrative support from the BPNA Membership Manager. |
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How to Apply Stage B - Application |









