Population Research UK logo

Frequently asked questions

Understand our funding process  

We’re committed to supporting a more interconnected data landscape, where users of Longitudinal Population Studies (LPS) benefit from a seamless journey. This section answers common questions about our funding model, and how to stay informed about upcoming opportunities. Whether you’re a researcher, data custodian, or institution, we hope this guidance helps you understand our process and explore ways to get involved.

Last updated: 27 October 2025 

Your questions answered 

What are the funding models used by Population Research UK? 

There are three distinct models to support our work, including: 

  • PRUK Hub to centrally deliver community engagement and advocacy;  
  • Open calls to invite competitive applications where specialist delivery is needed, and multiple providers could feasibly deliver the work; 
  • Partner-led funding applied where our UKRI partners – UK Longitudinal Linkage Collaboration (UK LLC) and CLOSER – are best placed to deliver activity, building on existing UKRI supported infrastructure and avoiding duplication. 

To contextualise, the PRUK Hub was awarded through a competitive open call with a remit to deliver investment in the UK LPS data infrastructure. This investment is designed to strengthen data service activity across coordination and advocacy, data discovery, data access, linkage, and training. Following community-wide consultation, the PRUK delivery plan was constructed around a mixed funding model to ensure effective, non-overlapping sustainable implementation of six core activities.

Approximately half the investment will be directed to open calls and half to Hub/partner-led activities. This approach has been endorsed by the PRUK Programme Board and adheres to UKRI funding principles. Collectively it follows funder guidance to minimise landscape complexity and consolidates on existing ESRC and MRC-funded resources rather than duplicates them, wherever possible. 

Which activities align with the funding model in place? 

The activities align with our funding model in the following ways: 

  • PRUK Hub: community engagement
  • Open calls: policy exchange, searchable register & UK LPS information hub, and secure data environment training platform
  • Partner-led funding: secure data environment training platform, and UK LPS training resource

For more details on each activity please consult our delivery plan.  

When will the next funding calls be launched? 

We have several funding activities planned across different areas. Below is an overview of expected timelines for the open calls: 

  • Synthetic data: open call in Q1 2026
  • Methodological research on representativeness: open call in Q1 2026
  • Policy exchange: open call in Q2 2026

Where can I find more detailed information about the current open call for a searchable register and UK LPS information hub? 

All information about this grant is available on our website, including the webinar slides, the recording on YouTube, and specific Q&A related to this funding opportunity. 

How can I stay informed about future funding opportunities? 

You can subscribe our bimonthly newsletter, follow us on social media – LinkedIn, BlueSky, X and YouTube -, or regularly check out our website for updates on funding calls and events. 

What support is available during the application process? 

If you need help during the application process, please contact us via email: info@pruk.ac.uk. 

Can I apply for multiple funding calls? 

Yes, it is possible to apply for multiple funding calls. 

Can the partners of Population Research UK – UK LLC and CLOSER – apply for any of the open calls?  

Neither UK LLC nor CLOSER are conflicted with respect to any funding opportunity, though would be recused from all parts of assessment if they submit a proposal.