UK Research and Innovation’s Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) has announced £9 million in funding for a variety of bioscience projects, with its prestigious 2024 Fellowships scheme supporting 19 future science leaders
The scheme is supporting the UK’s brightest bioscience minds as they embark on world-class research to address some of society’s biggest challenges. The fellowship programme empowers outstanding early-career scientists, giving them the freedom to pursue bold ideas with the potential for lasting impact. Their groundbreaking discoveries will not only transform our understanding of nature but also lead to real-world benefits for health, food security, and in technology.
Dr Karen Lewis, Executive Director, Capability and Innovation at BBSRC, said: “Groundbreaking, cutting-edge discoveries in biology happen because we empower talented researchers to ask bold questions and push the boundaries of knowledge. By supporting future bioscience leaders and investing in fundamental bioscience today, we are laying the foundation for tomorrow’s innovations.
“BBSRC’s latest Fellowships exemplify the power of bioscience research, to unlock new discoveries that have the potential to provide bio-based solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges and bring positive benefits to the lives and livelihoods of citizens around the world.”
Some of the project being supported are:
- Beyond antibiotics: a new way to fight infections
With antibiotic resistance on the rise, researchers are pioneering a novel approach, blocking bacteria’s ability to cause disease rather than killing them outright.
By targeting harmful strains of Escherichia coli with a promising natural compound, this project could lead to safer treatments, reducing the need for antibiotics and preserving gut health.
Rebecca McHugh, University of Glasgow - Harnessing viruses to combat superbugs
Antimicrobial resistance is a global crisis, but the answer may lie in bacteriophages, viruses that attack bacteria. By rapidly identifying virus genes that can break down bacterial biofilms, this research could unlock powerful new treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections, with huge implications for cystic fibrosis and other chronic diseases.
Branko Rihtman, University of Warwick - Creating a vaccine to save UK farming
Bacterial infections like mastitis cost UK farmers over £120 million a year and are notoriously hard to prevent.
This research is designing a next-generation vaccine against Staphylococcus aureus, tackling a major cause of disease in dairy farming. If successful, this breakthrough could reduce antibiotic use, improve animal welfare, and protect the food supply.
Carolin Kobras, University of Oxford
Thanks to the support of UK Research and Innovation’s BBSRC fellowships, these researchers will have the resources and freedom to turn their discoveries into real-world solutions, shaping the future of science and society.