Asia is emerging as a significant hub for medical research, driven by its diverse healthcare challenges, high population density, and rapid technological advancements.
The continent is seeing increased investment in medical research, with grants available from both government agencies and private institutions aimed at advancing public health, biomedical science, and clinical research.
In 2025, numerous funding opportunities are available across Asia, supporting innovative research in areas such as infectious diseases, biotechnology, genetics, and mental health.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to medical research grants in Asia, covering eligibility, requirements, and the application process.
Table of Contents
Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Research Grants
The JSPS offers grants to foster international collaboration in various fields of science, including medicine.
These grants aim to advance fundamental medical research, with a particular focus on international cooperation and interdisciplinary research.
Eligibility
Open to researchers affiliated with Japanese institutions or international researchers collaborating with Japanese teams.
Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent research experience.
- Grant Focus: Biomedical research, including molecular biology, genomics, and clinical sciences.
- Funding: Up to $200,000 per project, depending on the scope and duration of the research.
Application Process
Applications are submitted through the JSPS online portal, requiring a detailed research proposal, budget plan, and collaboration details.
Selections are made based on scientific merit and the project’s potential impact on global health.
National Medical Research Council (NMRC) Singapore
The NMRC in Singapore provides grants to support local and international researchers conducting health and medical research that addresses both national and regional healthcare challenges.
Eligibility
Researchers affiliated with recognized institutions in Singapore or collaborative research teams that include Singapore-based researchers.
- Grant Focus: Clinical research, healthcare innovation, epidemiology, and translational research.
- Funding: Up to $500,000 per project for general research grants, with additional funding for clinical trials and health services research.
Application Process
Applications are submitted via the Integrated Grant Management System (IGMS) portal.
Researchers must provide a research proposal, ethical approvals, and a detailed budget plan.
Selection criteria include scientific merit, potential healthcare impact, and alignment with Singapore’s healthcare priorities.
China’s National Natural Science Foundation (NSFC) Grants
The NSFC is China’s premier funding body for science and technology research.
It offers grants across various disciplines, including medical research.
This funding is especially aimed at projects that align with national health priorities, such as cancer research, infectious diseases, and genomics.
Eligibility
Open to Chinese researchers and international researchers collaborating with Chinese institutions.
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree or have equivalent research experience.
- Grant Focus: Oncology, infectious disease control, personalized medicine, and public health.
- Funding: Grants typically range from $50,000 to $300,000, depending on the project’s scope and duration.
Application Process
Applications are submitted through the NSFC online portal, requiring a research proposal, collaboration details, and budget breakdown.
The review process evaluates the project’s alignment with national priorities, scientific innovation, and feasibility.
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Grants
The ICMR is the leading medical research body in India, providing grants for projects that address major health issues in the country and the region.
ICMR grants support research in areas such as infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and non-communicable diseases.
Eligibility
Open to Indian researchers or international researchers collaborating with Indian institutions.
Applicants should have a background in medical or health sciences.
- Grant Focus: Infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, and nutrition.
- Funding: Up to $100,000 per project, with larger grants available for long-term collaborative research.
Application Process
Applications are submitted through the ICMR online portal, with requirements including a research proposal, budget, and ethical approvals.
Proposals are reviewed for their potential to address critical health issues in India.
Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI) Research Grants
KHIDI offers grants that focus on advancing healthcare technology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
The goal is to foster innovations that can be commercialized and improve healthcare delivery in South Korea and beyond.
Eligibility
Open to researchers affiliated with South Korean institutions or international teams collaborating with South Korean researchers.
Applicants should have relevant research or academic experience.
- Grant Focus: Medical technology, biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, and digital health.
- Funding: Grants typically range from $50,000 to $300,000, with additional funding available for large-scale collaborative projects.
Application Process
Proposals are submitted through KHIDI’s online portal, including a research proposal, commercialization plan, and budget.
The selection process emphasizes innovation potential and market relevance.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) Grants
MOST in Taiwan provides grants aimed at fostering high-impact medical research that addresses both local and global health issues.
The program encourages interdisciplinary and international collaborations.
Eligibility
Open to researchers affiliated with Taiwanese institutions or international research teams that collaborate with Taiwanese scientists.
- Grant Focus: Biotechnology, precision medicine, public health, and genetic research.
- Funding: Up to $150,000 per project, with potential for renewal based on research progress.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online through MOST’s grant portal, requiring a research proposal, detailed budget, and ethical approvals.
Projects are reviewed based on their innovation, potential health impact, and alignment with Taiwan’s research priorities.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Grants for Global Health
Although not exclusively for Asia, the Gates Foundation frequently funds projects in the region that address urgent health challenges, including infectious diseases, maternal health, and nutrition.
The foundation supports both large-scale projects and smaller, targeted initiatives.
Eligibility
Open to researchers and institutions worldwide, with a preference for projects that involve local partnerships in Asia.
- Grant Focus: Infectious diseases, maternal and child health, nutrition, and global health innovations.
- Funding: Grant sizes vary widely, with some projects receiving over $1 million depending on scope and impact.
Application Process
Proposals are submitted through the Gates Foundation website, often in response to specific requests for proposals (RFPs).
Applications must include a research plan, budget, and impact analysis.
Selection is competitive and based on scientific merit, innovation, and potential to improve public health.
Tips for Applying to Medical Research Grants in Asia
Many funding bodies prioritize research that addresses specific regional health issues.
Tailor your proposal to highlight how your project aligns with these priorities.
1. Build Collaborative Teams
Many Asian funding bodies encourage international collaborations.
Partnering with local institutions or researchers can strengthen your application.
2. Prepare a Detailed Budget
Most grant applications require a precise breakdown of anticipated costs.
Ensure your budget is realistic and justifies the funds requested.
3. Emphasize Ethical Standards
Medical research often requires ethical approval, particularly if it involves human subjects.
Obtain necessary clearances and address ethical considerations in your proposal.
4. Focus on Impact and Innovation
Funding bodies look for projects with the potential for high impact and innovation.
Clearly articulate how your research can advance scientific knowledge or improve public health.
Conclusion
Medical research grants in Asia for 2025 provide essential funding for projects that address regional and global health challenges.
From government agencies in Japan, China, and India to international organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, numerous opportunities exist for researchers committed to making a meaningful impact in the field of medicine.
By understanding each grant’s focus, eligibility requirements, and application process, researchers can effectively apply for funding to advance their work and contribute to public health improvements in Asia and beyond.