Are you working at the intersection of biotechnology, genetics, and society? The Wellcome Trust has announced a unique funding opportunity: the Genomics in Context Awards.

This award is specifically designed to move genomics research beyond the lab by integrating it with the humanities, social sciences, and community engagement. For BBPSK members, this is a chance to lead or partner in projects that ensure genomic discoveries in Kenya are ethical, equitable, and locally relevant.

The Vision

Wellcome is looking to fund transdisciplinary teams that can create new research agendas. The goal is to involve social scientists, bioethicists, and community stakeholders at the earliest stages of genomic research—rather than as an afterthought—to open new fields of discovery that benefit human health globally.

Funding & Duration

• Grant Amount: Up to £500,000 (~KES 85 Million) per award.

• Duration: 12 to 24 months.

• Eligible Costs: Staff salaries, equipment, fieldwork, travel, and public engagement.

Why This Matters for Kenyan Professionals

Kenya is a hub for genomic surveillance and agricultural biotechnology. This award offers BBPSK members the resources to:

• Lead Globally: Lead applicants can be based anywhere in the world (including Kenya).

• Build Transdisciplinary Teams: Teams must include a mix of genomics researchers (life sciences) and experts in humanities, social sciences, or bioethics.

• Empower Communities: Projects must include a "wider stakeholder," such as community leaders, NGOs, or healthcare partners, ensuring that Kenyan genomic data remains representative and beneficial to local populations.

Eligibility Criteria

• Lead Applicants: Can be at any career stage (Early, Mid, or Established).

• Team Structure: Every application must be a collaboration. You need one lead and 1–4 co-applicants.

• Expertise: Must demonstrate research or professional expertise in genomics-related life sciences or the social/ethical contexts surrounding it.

Key Themes for Research

1. Emerging Technologies: Responsibly developing AI in genomics or synthetic genomics.

2. Existing Areas: Expanding pathogen genome surveillance (critical for Kenya's public health) or food systems research through genomic insights.

3. Indigenous-Led Projects: Community-driven research agendas that drive and benefit from knowledge generation in Africa.

Important Dates

• Matchmaking Registration: Registration for "Neuromatch" (to find collaborators) typically closes in November, but networking for the 2026 cycle is encouraged now.

• Application Deadline: March 16, 2026 (17:00 GMT).

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Wellcome Funding platform. BBPSK encourages members to start identifying social science and community partners early to build a strong, integrated proposal.

For full details and to start your application, visit the Wellcome Trust Genomics in Context Awards page.