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MNN Global · February 5, 2026 · 1 min read

UK’s £8bn research fund pauses new grants amid focus shift

What happened: UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has paused awarding new grants following government advice to prioritise and concentrate efforts. UKRI chief Ian Chapman confirmed the organisation must 'focus and do fewer things better'.

Why it matters:

  • Research projects may face delays or funding uncertainty due to the pause.
  • Scientists and institutions relying on UKRI grants will be directly affected by the shift in funding strategy.

MNN Take: The government is urging UKRI to streamline its funding approach, aiming to improve the impact of investments by concentrating resources on fewer priorities.

Sources: BBC Technology