Applying for a research licence
The HFEA has the power to grant research licences for up to three years for individual research projects. All licence applications, renewals and progress reports are evaluated by an HFEA Research Licence Committee.
Research on human embryos is important for the continuing development of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) and for ensuring the efficacy and safety of existing treatments. Understanding of early human development and genetic disease gained from research on human embryos may ultimately improve the success of fertility and related medical treatments.
See what research projects are currently licensed:
The research licence application process
Contact the HFEA
The first step is to complete the Initial Enquiry form. This form will tell us what type of licence you are planning to apply for and what activities you are planning to offer.
- Initial enquiry form (872 Kb)
You should send the completed form by email to HFEA.
The HFEA will point you in the direction of all relevant information that should be looked at prior to setting up a centre.
When you have looked through this information and have a timescale for applying for your licence, an Inspector will be allocated to you who will be able to advise you on the licensing process and the requirements that you need to meet to satisfy the Licence Committee.
Seek research ethics approval
You should seek research ethics approval from a properly constituted ethics committee before you apply for a licence.
Appoint a Person Responsible (PR)
Any intended research project must be carried out under the supervision of the Person Responsible - a suitably qualified member of the team who ensures that the centre and staff comply with the HFE Act and Code of Practice.
The intented Person Responsible will need to complete the Person Responsible Entry Programme (PREP).
Complete the application form
Once the relevant legislation and guidance has been read and a PR appointed, the Research licence application form should be completed. The form is available on the Clinic Portal.
We will check the application for any omissions, and contact you if more documentation is required.
Application fees
When submitting your application form, you will be asked to also provide an application fee which varies depending on the type of research you are planning on undertaking.
The administration fee is currently £500 for most projects.
Projects involving the derivation of human embryonic stem cells or cell nuclear replacement incur an administration fee of £750, which reflects on the increased complexity and rigour required for the licensing of such projects.
Next steps
Find out what happens after you have applied for your research licence.
Page last updated: 02 September 2009
The premises timeline shows, step-by-step, each stage of the licensing process and the timeframe for processing all applications.
Read about the role of the HFEA as a regulator and as a provider of advice and guidance.