Topic: preparedness

Chris Smith and Rachael Ralph explore the mechanisms and forecasting of El Niño and its consequences for weather, livelihoods and health. Contributions from Aidan McGivern and Peter Gibbs explain the climate dynamics; Vicky Pryce discusses economic disruption; Rachel Tolhurst and Teresa Zakaria examine health vulnerabilities and preparedness. The episode connects climate science with the decisions facing public-health services and communities.

Mandatory expression-of-interest stage for research on medical countermeasures to improve UK preparedness for CBRN incidents. Projects may develop or test therapeutics, diagnostics, medical devices and other interventions through early clinical studies. The programme allows up to GBP4 million per application, funds 80% of full economic cost and supports projects up to 30 months. Submit the required EOI form and the funder-requested email by 20 October 2026 at 16:00 UK time. Invited full applications open on 5 November 2026.