UK Research Councils Pause Applications for Major Grants Amid Budget Uncertainty

UK's major research councils (MRC, BBSRC, EPSRC) have temporarily halted applications for key funding programs amid budget uncertainty. The move affects grants in medicine, biology, engineering, and physical sciences. Scientists are concerned about further cuts to research spending and the balance between curiosity-driven research and priority-led funding. The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) plans to cut its budget by £162 million by 2029-30.