This new award was established in 2025 when the Radiological Research Trust (RRT) merged with the BIR. It is aimed at supporting innovative radiological research, facilitating vital early-stage funding to advance cutting-edge projects in the field. The award offers a small research grant of up to £5000 annually.
A former President of the BIR, Professor George du Boulay CBE, FRCR, FRCP, was a pioneering academic neuroradiologist and a founding member of the British Society of Neuroradiologists. In 1985, he established the RRT to address the severe lack of funding for research and education in medical imaging, becoming its first director. The RRT transferred its remaining funds to the British Institute of Radiology to continue the commitment to supporting innovative radiological research, facilitating vital early-stage funding to advance cutting-edge projects in the field.
Apply now for the 2026 Award - Closing date 31 May 2026
Application form - please email to awards@bir.org.uk
Applicants must use the Application form to apply.
All funding applications will be judged against the following criteria:
- Is the research project directly relevant to the fields of interest of the The BIR?
- Does the proposed study repeat research already undertaken, or duplicate work which may currently be taking place?
- Does the project have scientific credibility?
- Is the project feasible?
- Does the project have ethical approval (if required)?
- Are the costs requested realistic?
- Is the length of time required for funding appropriate to the work involved?
- What is the likelihood of a study making a substantial advance in scientific understanding and knowledge?
- What is the likelihood of the study leading to a substantial health gain?
- What is the likelihood of the study increasing our understanding of the broader topic area?
General Criteria
- The lead applicant MUST be a BIRMember and an early career researcher who is a radiologist, radiographer, scientist or allied professional.
- The research must be in the fields of radiology, radiotherapy, oncology, radiography or medical physics.
- Applications and outlines will be judged by the Awards and Prizes Committee.
- The Award to be given at the BIR Annual Congress but can also be given at other suitable scientific meetings.
- To provide pump-priming up to £5000.
Award 2025
Dr Vinson Chan, ST1 Clinical Radiology Trainee at Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust
With a strong background in collaborative networks and interventional oncology Dr Chan is the principle investigator of the DEFINE-IO study. The award was presensted to Dr Chan by BIR President, Dr Nick Screaton at the BIR Annual Congress on 20 Novemaber 2025.
Image: Dr Nick Screaton and Dr Vinson Chan
