The MDx Impact Grants 2025–2026 have been established to expand the use of syndromic PCR technology and to democratise access to accurate diagnostics that address urgent global health challenges. By this initiative, both funding and advanced diagnostic platforms are being made available so that innovative diagnostic solutions may be developed, validated, and delivered for maximum patient benefit. Drug-resistant infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs), are increasingly being recognised as a serious global health threat. The MDx Impact Grants have been designed to support researchers who are addressing this challenge by enabling the development of high-multiplex PCR assays that detect antibiotic resistance genes with precision. By this approach, patient care is expected to be improved and the impact of antimicrobial resistance mitigated. Through this programme, collaboration with Seegene is being encouraged so that research groups worldwide may transform innovation into practical clinical outcomes. Nature Awards
2025 Scope: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Drug Resistance:
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Proposals are being sought that target UTI drug resistance genes, such as:
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CTX-M
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KPC
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NDM
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vanA
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📌 Eligible projects must include between 9 and 18 target genes, excluding internal controls.
Award Benefits:
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Technology Access: Use of Seegene’s advanced syndromic PCR platform will be provided.
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Funding Support: Development grants of up to USD 600,000 will be awarded.
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Clinical Impact: Diagnostic tools designed under this programme will be expected to improve patient outcomes and contribute to global health.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applications will be accepted from research groups worldwide. To be considered, it must be demonstrated that:
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Access is available to BSL-2 (Biosafety Level 2) facilities.
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Expertise in PCR methods is held.
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Relevant clinical specimens are accessible.
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Eligibility exists to conduct IVD validation studies in accordance with regulatory frameworks.
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Only one application is submitted by each research group.
About the Application:
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Applications will be managed via Submittable. Email systems must be configured to accept communications from Submittable, and the domain should be whitelisted.
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Applications should be prepared in a standalone document prior to submission and retained for institutional use.
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Applicants are required to confirm that the pro forma service agreement has been shared with their institution’s funding office and that approval in principle has been granted with only minor modifications expected.
Timeline:
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Open Date: Tuesday, 2 September 2025
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Close Date: Friday, 21 November 2025 (03:00 AM GMT / 23:59 GMT cutoff on 20 Nov local submission)
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Assessment Period: November 2025 – August 2026
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Shortlist Announcement: Mid-March 2026
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Successful Applicants Notified: Mid-August 2026
Key Links:
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✉️ Enquiries: mdximpactgrants@springernature.com
Note:
Through the Nature Awards MDx Impact Grants 2025–2026, global research teams are being empowered to advance syndromic PCR diagnostics and address the urgent issue of drug-resistant UTIs. By the provision of technology, funding, and international collaboration, the possibility is being created to improve diagnostic access, enhance patient outcomes, and strengthen public health worldwide.
📌 Applications are now being accepted, and participation in this initiative is strongly encouraged.
