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Intended outcomes and FAQs

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Timeline and intended outcomes

This timeline highlights the key stages and intended outcomes of the Network's activities to a given challenge.

Timeline Phase Outcome
August–September 2026

Set-up and governance

Steering Group, Advisory Forum, Workstream Terms of Reference, capability and stakeholder mapping.
October 2026

Network launch and challenge selection

 Launch symposium and identification of priority partner-defined challenges.
November 2026–April 2027

Workstream development

Workstream workshops/sandpits and four structured Challenge Briefs.
November 2026–April 2027

Translation and consortium development

Mission Translation and Consortium Accelerator and two Accelerator clinics.
January–May 2027 External engagement

Partner roundtables spanning NHS/NIHR, MedTech/investment and civic/community/international health systems.
April–July 2027

Proposal pipeline and sustainability

At least two submission-ready consortium pathways, final showcase and continuation model.

Frequently asked questions

Do we need a fully developed research idea to contact the Network?

No. The Network is specifically designed to start with a problem, unmet need, dataset or organisational challenge and help determine what type of collaboration may be appropriate.

Does the challenge have to be purely about AI?

No. AI and data are important enabling capabilities, but challenges can also involve MedTech, health services, prevention, health equity, climate/environmental health, economics, procurement, implementation or policy.

Can international organisations participate?

Yes. International organisations and universities can engage through workshops, joint challenge development, research collaboration, data initiatives and consortium building.

Does participating in a workshop guarantee a funded research project?

No. Workshops are used to define and assess challenges. Some opportunities may progress to the Accelerator and consortium development, while others may be held, redirected or developed later.

What funding routes may be considered?

Depending on the challenge and consortium, routes may include NIHR, MRC, UKRI, Innovate UK, Horizon Europe and other relevant national or international programmes.

Are participation expenses supported?

Where eligible and agreed in advance, reasonable participation-related expenses may be supported in line with University policy and the terms of the Network+ award.

Can organisations share data with the Network?

Potentially, yes, but only where there is a clear purpose and appropriate ethical, information-governance, security, confidentiality and data-sharing arrangements are in place.