We’ve already made advances that would have been unthinkable just 10 years ago, and we are determined to go even further and faster. Here’s what we are currently funding.
Our research strategy
Transforming lives through research
Our vision is clear: a world without limits for people living with muscle wasting conditions. To realise this vision, over the next decade we’ll be focussing all our energy and efforts on achieving four key strategic goals.
1. Transforming diagnosis – we will help speed up and improve the accuracy of diagnosis
2. No one faces their journey alone – we will reach everyone with information and support at the point of their diagnosis and be there for them at every stage of their journey
3. New treatments, universal support – we will help accelerate the development of new treatments for every condition and quicker and easier access to specialist support when and where people need it
4. Living your life to the full – we will campaign for a more equal and accessible world and support more people to live independently with better physical and mental health
Our research strategy will help us deliver our vision
Achieving our vision means tackling the biggest challenges facing people with muscle wasting conditions – and research is a vital part of that. We will fund groundbreaking research into new treatments and a deeper understanding of these conditions, because progress must make a difference for people now as well as in the future. That’s why we have developed a bold strategy with our community, including people living with muscle wasting conditions and leading researchers, to drive forward the kind of research that matters most to them.
What we’re doing and why it matters
1. Investing in the next generation of researchers
To keep driving progress, we will step up our investment in researchers at the start of their careers through PhD studentships and fellowships. These researchers will bring fresh ideas and energy to the field, helping accelerate improvements in diagnosis, treatment and everyday life for people with muscle wasting conditions.
2. Focusing on what conditions have in common
We support people affected by over 60 muscle wasting conditions. That gives us a unique opportunity to fund research that explores how these conditions are connected. By focusing on what they have in common, we can help uncover treatments that benefit more people, more quickly.
3. Building strong partnerships
We know we can’t do this alone. That’s why we will continue to work closely with other charities, funders, the NHS and researchers to ensure people with muscle wasting conditions get the best possible support. Where we can, we’ll join forces on research projects, bringing together expertise and resources to make the biggest impact with every pound we invest.
4. Improving everyday quality of life
We will expand our support for research that focuses on emotional wellbeing and daily life – to help people with muscle wasting conditions live well today. While treatments take time, this kind of research can make a meaningful difference now, improving mental health, independence and quality of life.
Our approach
- Strategic and impact-driven: We will fund research that reflects the priorities of people affected by muscle wasting conditions and delivers measurable outcomes.
- Collaborative and inclusive: We will shape research priorities with our community – researchers, clinicians and people affected with muscle wasting conditions. We’ll also encourage diverse teams to work together on ambitious projects that tackle the biggest challenges.
- Flexible and supportive: We will offer a range of funding routes, including fellowships and large, ambitious ‘neuromuscular challenge grants’ to complement our traditional grant schemes. And where we can, we’ll work in partnership to maximise impact.
- Informative and accessible: We will share research updates in ways that are clear, relevant and easy to understand – keeping our community informed about progress, priorities and the difference research is making.
Together, we can make a difference
This strategy is about progress, partnership and impact. Whether it’s helping a new researcher start their career, funding a breakthrough that changes lives, or simply making everyday life a little easier – we’re here for the community, and we’re building a future together.
Current research projects
For researchers
We consider applications into 60 different muscle weakening and wasting conditions that align with our research strategy. Browse our funding opportunities and advice for applying for a grant.