The UK government, through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), is providing just over £160 million in public funding to the Rosalind Franklin Institute and the Henry Royce Institute for the next five years. This investment aims to support their work in improving lives and driving economic growth.
Science Minister Chris McDonald marked the announcement by unveiling a new microscope at the Rosalind Franklin Institute. This advanced Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) microscope operates at 10 times the resolution of conventional light microscopy, allowing researchers to examine the fine structures and layers inside gut cells. These insights are expected to advance understanding of inflammatory bowel disease and gastric cancer, potentially leading to new treatments.
The Rosalind Franklin Institute will benefit from a new £67.7 million investment, building on its research in imaging, engineering, biology, and diagnostics. The Henry Royce Institute will receive £95 million to further its research into advanced materials, contributing to the National Materials Strategy launched in February 2026. This includes work on lighter, more powerful batteries and new alloys for electric vehicles and wind turbines.
Both institutes were recommended for continued funding following an independent review of their impact and value to the research community. The funding supports the government's 10-year industrial strategy goal of translating UK research into jobs, new investment, and economic growth across the country.