Investing in research – the path to personalised treatment and a functional cure

No two myeloma journeys are the same. We know that the best treatment for one person living with myeloma may look very different from the best treatment for another.

That’s why today, we’re opening a £1 million funding opportunity to carry out groundbreaking research in the area of ‘Treatment optimisation, tolerance and consequences’. Successful applicants will use this funding across five years, to understand how to optimise myeloma treatment.

Let’s work together to ensure that clinicians have the right treatment and care for every patient, at the right time, giving people living with myeloma the best possible future.

The right treatment at the right time

“It’s not just about what the toxicity or side effect is, it’s about the consequence of that for a patient. What is a manageable side effect for one person could be devastating for another if it prevents them from working or doing their favourite hobby”.

Maria Lambides – living with myeloma. Research Advisory Group member

At Myeloma UK we’re committed to funding research that helps people with myeloma to live longer and better lives. Like you, we want a future that gives everyone more flexibility and a more personalised approach to treatment options. This grant call is a key step in making this a reality. It will fund research committed to addressing those challenges highlighted to us by people affected by myeloma.

This could include issues such as sequencing of treatments, minimising side effects, supporting patients to manage the impact of myeloma treatment and care on everyday life and making sure they can access the right treatments, at the right times. By understanding how to optimise treatment and reduce side effects, this research could help pave the way towards a functional cure, where myeloma is kept under control long term and is manageable, with little impact on everyday life. 

Care should be individualised for each person living with myeloma, ensuring that treatment plans are patient-centred and aligned with their needs.

From innovation to impact – apply now

Researchers from around the UK will now have until 14 May 2026 to apply for this funding opportunity worth up to £1 million over 5 years – we plan to award the successful project in late 2026.

Whilst applications will be considered from different areas including basic, clinical and translational research, applicants are expected to demonstrate a clear line of sight to patient impact. For full details on eligibility, application requirements and timelines, visit our grant call webpage.

Applications will be assessed with the support of our Research Advisory Group. A successful application will demonstrate excellent scientific quality, and clear positive impact for people living with myeloma and related conditions.

Help us improve outcomes for people living with myeloma and related conditions. Together, we are the cure.