Bardhan Research and Education Trust of Rotherham

The Bardhan Research and Education Trust of Rotherham (BRET), founded by Dr Karna Dev Bardhan and incorporated in 1988 with charitable status from 1989, advances research and education in medicine, with a sharp focus on gastrointestinal diseases and the interplay between food, nutrition, and digestive function. Rooted in groundbreaking local studies on peptic ulcer disease that spurred international collaboration and clinical breakthroughs, BRET's mission emphasizes scientific rigour tempered by compassion, empowering innovative researchers of any age to pursue 'blue skies' and high-risk projects often ignored by mainstream funders. Its trustees foster close mentorship, prioritizing talent development and translational impact from bench to bedside, having awarded over £2 million to more than 50 scientists.

BRET funds fundamental and translational research, investigator-led studies, clinical trials (e.g., on cimetidine and proton pump inhibitors), novel diagnostics, gene studies, and nutrition responses in gastroenterology. Support includes PhDs, MDs, postdoctoral fellowships, and earlier degrees like BMedSci and MSc, often enabling outstanding overseas students at the University of Sheffield; grants go to individuals (research fellows, students) and academic organizations for research and educational activities.

Eligible recipients are academic institutions and individuals demonstrating determination and innovation, primarily in South Yorkshire (Rotherham, Sheffield) but extending to England and Wales; no income, size, age, or religious restrictions apply, though funding is invite-only via trustee networks—no unsolicited applications accepted. Typical grants range £10,000–£40,000, with no fixed deadlines or meetings; decisions are discretionary.

BRET excludes core organizational costs, general running expenses, and direct people/community support, distinguishing itself through calculated risk-taking, sustained gut health focus, regional workforce resilience, and unwavering commitment to overlooked, high-potential biomedical innovation over trendy or narrow clinical pursuits.