The British Academy has been funded by the Department of Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) to support the Innovation Fellowships. The Academy is also working on this scheme in partnership with other partners, including the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), as per this call.
The Innovation Fellowships scheme will provide funding and support for established early-career and mid-career researchers in the Humanities and Social Sciences to partner with organisations and business in the creative, cultural, public, private and policy sectors, to address challenges that require innovative approaches and solutions. Through the Innovation Fellowships, our researchers in the SHAPE community will be supported to create new and deeper links beyond academia, so enabling knowledge mobilisation and translation, as well as individual skill.
The British Academy Innovation Fellowships Scheme is a prestigious initiative aimed at fostering collaboration between academia and industry to drive innovation and address societal challenges. Launched by the British Academy, the UK’s national academy for the humanities and social sciences, this scheme supports researchers in these fields to apply their knowledge and expertise in practical, impactful ways beyond the academic setting.
The primary goal of the Innovation Fellowships Scheme is to bridge the gap between research and its application in the real world. By encouraging partnerships between scholars and external organizations—such as businesses, government bodies, NGOs, and cultural institutions—the scheme seeks to translate academic research into innovative solutions that can benefit society, influence policy, and drive economic growth.
Fellows selected for this program receive funding to work on projects that align with the priorities of both their academic research and the partner organization. This collaboration allows researchers to gain a deeper understanding of industry challenges while applying their theoretical insights to develop practical innovations. Projects supported by the scheme often address a wide range of issues, including public health, digital transformation, social inequality, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability.
The fellowship provides more than just financial support; it also offers a unique opportunity for researchers to enhance their skills, broaden their networks, and increase the impact of their work. Throughout the fellowship, scholars engage in knowledge exchange activities, workshops, and networking events that help them to refine their ideas and build connections with professionals and policymakers in their field. This interaction not only enriches the research process but also helps ensure that the resulting innovations are both relevant and sustainable.
Another key aspect of the British Academy Innovation Fellowships Scheme is its emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. The humanities and social sciences are crucial for understanding the human, social, and cultural dimensions of technological and scientific advancements. By integrating these perspectives into the innovation process, the scheme promotes more holistic and inclusive approaches to solving complex problems.
In addition to its focus on applied research, the scheme also contributes to the professional development of early-career researchers. By participating in the program, fellows gain valuable experience in project management, stakeholder engagement, and the practical application of their research. This experience not only enhances their academic careers but also prepares them for leadership roles in both academia and industry.
The outcomes of the Innovation Fellowships are expected to have a lasting impact, leading to new products, services, policies, and practices that benefit society. Moreover, the scheme helps to strengthen the relationship between academia and external organizations, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual learning that can drive ongoing innovation.
The British Academy Innovation Fellowships Scheme is a vital initiative that leverages the expertise of humanities and social sciences researchers to address real-world challenges. By facilitating collaboration between academia and industry, the scheme not only advances innovation but also ensures that research has a tangible, positive impact on society. For scholars, it offers a unique opportunity to expand their horizons, apply their knowledge in new contexts, and contribute to meaningful change.
The Academy and the FCDO invite applications for Fellowships in any of the following areas.
- India
- The politics of energy transition and climate change in Africa
- The role of technology in shaping citizen-state relations in Africa
Benefits
The Academy is able to offer awards of up to £120,000 for 12 months in duration (with Full Economic Costing at 80%).
Requirements For The British Academy Innovation Fellowships Scheme
Open to early-career and mid-career researchers in the Humanities and Social Sciences
Selection Process
Starting period of award: Awards are expected to commence no earlier than 1 January 2025 and no later than 31 March 2025. The start date of the fellowship award will depend on the successful completion of the security check and signature of the agreement. Applicants are expected to provide information requested by FCDO in a timely manner to enable the fellowship to begin promptly.
Duration of award: awards are for a period of 12 months.
Method of Application
Application Deadline: October 27, 2024.
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