Scottish universities awarded £2m to ‘shape the future of science’

Five Scottish projects have been awarded more than £2m to tackle some of the most pressing health and environmental challenges.

Researchers based at the University of Edinburgh and the University of Glasgow have secured part of a £9m government fund for their projects which are poised “to push the boundaries of knowledge”.

From combating antibiotic resistance to developing resilient crops, the projects are expected to underpin the next generation of scientific breakthroughs.

Two Glasgow-based researchers have each been awarded more than £400,000 for their research into health immunity and how to improve brassica crops, which include broccoli, kale and brussels sprouts.

One project will look into blocking bacteria’s ability to cause disease, by targeting harmful strains of E. coli – which can cause severe stomach infections – with a natural compound. It is hoped the project could cut the need for antibiotics and preserve gut health.

Meanwhile, three Edinburgh University researchers have also each been awarded around £450,000 for their research into vaccine design, antiviral responses and the environmental effects on ageing.

The funding comes from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council’s (BBSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation, 2024 fellowship scheme.

Karen Lewis, executive director for 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.”

The Scottish researchers are five of 19 that have been awarded funding to turn their research into real-world solutions.

Other institutions that have secured a part of the cash boost include the University of Oxford, which will look into how to mimic flies’ fast movements against threats in drone technology, and the University of Birmingham for its research into unlocking molecular mechanisms in plant memory to create disease-resistant crops.