Scope and funding

This funding has both a research and career development focus. Applications can be for a range of activities such as standard research projects, surveys and other infrastructure projects and methodological developments. In addition, they will provide applicants with an opportunity not only to support their own skill development, but also the skill development of research staff employed on the grant. ESRC expect applicants to have a mentor and the proposal should detail a tailored career development plan.

The full economic cost of your project can range from £100,000 to £300,000. ESRC will fund 80% of the full economic cost. The duration of this award is up to five years (60 months).

When to apply

Applications are via the UKRI Funding Service and will run as consecutive rounds with closing dates but you can submit your application in advance of these deadlines:

• Round 2 opened on 29 September and the closes 25^th January 2024
• Round 3 will open on 26^th January 2024, closing deadline TBC – please see the call page for the most up to date details.

How to apply through the University of Bristol

Please note there is a two stage University of Bristol internal review process in place for this scheme:

• Stage one – internal outline to be developed with the support of a mentor. This will go to your School Research Director to make a decision on approval. If approved, you will then be supported by your mentor, SRD and staff from Bristol’s Division Research Enterprise and Innovation (DREI) to develop your full application
• Stage two (UPER) – internal review of a near final draft. This process is in place for all ESRC applications from UoB and will take at least 6 weeks. Approved applicants should expect it to take four months (including the UPER review process) to fully develop and submit their full applications, with support from their identified mentors and staff from Bristol’s DREI.

Approved applicants should expect it to take four months (including the UPER review process) to fully develop and submit their full applications, with support from their identified mentors and staff from Bristol’s DREI.

For more details, visit the Division of Research, Enterprise and Innovation (DREI) SharePoint site (visible only to University of Bristol colleagues) and/or discuss with your mentor and School Research Director as soon as possible.