The MPS Foundation is inviting applications from dental professionals, practices, and academic institutions for its 2026 grant programme.
Launched in 2022, the MPS Foundation sits alongside Dental Protection as part of the wider Medical Protection Society. The global not-for-profit research initiative funds research addressing key challenges facing dentistry, including workforce pressures, mental wellbeing, human factors in practice, digital innovation, and improvements in dental education and training.
Since its launch, the MPS Foundation has supported more than 60 medical and dental research projects worldwide. Funded initiatives include a multidimensional wellbeing programme for dental students and professionals across Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, aimed at strengthening mental health and professional resilience within the dental workforce.
The Foundation is inviting applications for research that strengthens the wellbeing of dental professionals and teams, enhances patient safety in dental care settings, and supports evidence-based improvements in clinical practice. Grants of up to AU$388,500 are available, depending on the ambition, scope, and duration of the proposal. Smaller, practice-based studies are also encouraged, with previous awards as little as AU$4,850.
Applications are open to both members and non-members in regions where MPS operates, including Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Caribbean and Bermuda, Ireland, the UK, and South Africa. Joint applications between Australia-based researchers and international partners are welcomed, particularly where shared learning can enhance patient safety and clinician wellbeing across healthcare systems.
Research proposals must be academically robust, evidence-based, and aligned with at least one of the MPS Foundation’s four strategic priorities:
- the impact of human factors on patient safety, outcomes, and risk in healthcare settings, including dental practice
• the personal and professional wellbeing of healthcare professionals and teams
• the impact of digital integration and technology on patient safety, outcomes, and risk
• evaluation of the effectiveness of teaching and learning innovations
Professor Gozie Offiah, MPS Foundation Chair, said:
“Dentistry faces several unique challenges, from workforce pressures and mental wellbeing concerns to rapid technological change and evolving patient expectations. The MPS Foundation is committed to supporting high-quality research that delivers practical improvements for dental professionals and safer outcomes for patients.
“We particularly welcome applications from dental practitioners and teams working in real-world settings, where research findings can directly inform everyday practice and enhance patient care.
“If you have an idea that could improve patient safety or strengthen the wellbeing of dental teams, we encourage you to apply and join our growing community of grant recipients. We also provide a range of resources and support to help applicants throughout the process.”
Applicants can register their interest and apply via the online grant portal at www.thempsfoundation.org. The deadline for expressions of interest is 17:00 BST on Friday 1 May 2026.
The MPS Foundation will also host a series of online Q&A clinics to explain the application process and provide guidance on submitting a strong proposal. Details and booking information are available on the MPS Foundation Grant Portal.
