Our Research Fund supports members with limited access to research funds to start new projects, particularly those working in less well-funded institutes, those in developing countries and early career researchers.
Who can apply?
In order to be eligible, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- You are an RSC member (AMRSC or above)
- You hold an independent research post
- Applications are limited to one per department and require support from your Head of Department
Please ensure you read our terms & conditions fully before you begin your application.
Scientific referees can download the scientific referee form here.
What can I request funding for?
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The scheme provides up to £4000 of funding for 12 months, covering:
- Chemicals and/or equipment
- Consumables
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Funding cannot be used for travel or departmental overheads and should not replace or reduce institutional or funding agency support.
Application timelines
| Applications open | 23 September 2020 |
| Application close | 3 November 2020 |
| Initial screening decisions | Week commencing 9 November 2020 |
| Funding decisions | Week commencing 21 December 2020 |
We will also be running another round of applications in spring 2021. Further details will be announced in the new year.
Assessment criteria
All applications will undergo an initial screening by staff. Applications will be rejected at this stage if:
- You do not meet our eligibility criteria (see above).
- Your application is incomplete.
- Your application does not adhere to length limits instructed in the application system.
- Your funding request exceeds the £4000 limit.
All remaining applications will undergo peer review by our panel of researchers. They will assess applications on:
| Quality of science | Reviewers will assess novelty and scientific impact of the proposed project. |
| Feasibility of proposal | Your proposal must be clearly written and costed, and must be feasible to complete in a 12 month timeframe. |
| Situation of the applicant | We will prioritise those with limited access to research funding or a short term gap in funding which is impacting a specific project. |
| Impact of the funding | Reviewers will assess how completion of your project will benefit your career. Examples include promotion/new position prospects or chances for further funding. |
For full details, please see our terms & conditions or contact us using the form below.
Funding
- Email:
- Send us an email