The Alan Turing Institute’s Defence & National Security Grand Challenge is seeking to commission research projects in AI Security. The research call is part of the multi-year Laboratory for AI Security Research programme, working closely with UK Government agencies.
The programme aims to have real-world applied impact through deployable machine learning solutions realised over the coming years. This research call is seeking to support novel research ideas, testing of real-world solutions with datasets where possible and, if appropriate, literature reviews. Projects will need to be delivered between the period 01 July 2026 – 19 March 2027. Projects may be initiated after 01 July 2026, and applicants may determine the duration, but the project should be defined as such that it can be completed by 19 March 2027.
Applications must be submitted via the online Flexigrant portal. If you have not already done so, all applicants must first register on the system and provide basic details to create a profile. If you have any questions regarding the application form or using the online system, please contact the programme inbox dsprogramme@turing.ac.uk, referencing 'D&NS LASR Call for Research Services'. Please refer to the call documentation (PDF attached) for further information.
Key dates
Call closes: 15:00, Wednesday 13 May 2026
Review of applications and eligibility checks: 14 – 28 May 2026
Announcement of results: Thursday 28 May 2026
Contracting: 01 – 30 June 2026
Earliest project start date: Wednesday 01 July 2026
Research Completed and deliverables submitted for all projects: Friday 19 March 2027
