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Other funding opportunities

RCUK Second GCRF Collective Fund call will be launched in late summer 2017

Research Councils UK are pleased to announce that a second GCRF Collective Fund call will be launched in late summer 2017. This call will establish a cohort of large-scale Global Challenges Interdisciplinary Research Hubs, which will be expected to deliver integrated and innovative international research programmes meeting the aims of Official Development Assistance (ODA).

These flagship GCRF investments will bring together UK researchers and researchers from DAC list countries to work in collaboration to more effectively understand and address key development challenges both across and between the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Due to the complex nature of these development challenges, Hubs will be expected to incorporate new collaborations and partnerships in order to redefine how we approach development challenges in innovative, transformative and inter-disciplinary ways.

The purpose of this pre-announcement is to allow potential applicants to begin the process of identifying appropriate collaborators and project partners with a view to assembling interdisciplinary teams. A full call document will be released in due course outlining further details and how to apply.

There will be a multi-stage application process; any Research Organisation on the RCUK IRO list will be eligible to apply as PI to the call; additional eligibility will be outlined in the call documentation when the call is formally open for applications. Overseas research organisations are not eligible to apply as the lead organisation to the call, but will be expected to play a very significant role in the development of and leadership within the Hubs.

Find further information on this call.

Global Challenges Research Fund Networking Grants

The GCRF Networking Grants are funded by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) as part of the UK government’s Official Development Assistance. The programme aims to allow researchers from the UK and developing countries to hold networking events to forge new links and generate new research ideas to address global challenges. The awards provide up to £25,000 towards consumables and travel and subsistence costs associated with these networking events.

The GCRF Networking Grants will require a joint application between a lead UK-based researcher and a lead overseas researcher. Both leads must hold a permanent position or fixed term position for the duration of award and the lead overseas researcher must be from a DAC-listed country.
Opening date: 28 June 2017

Find further information on this call.

Funding for scientific collaboration across the Commonwealth

Below is a summary of funding available for scientific collaboration between scientists from Commonwealth countries. This summary is based on information provided by national science academies, High Commissions in Commonwealth countries, desk research and other contacts. It is not exhaustive and there may be additional schemes which are not captured here. Funding schemes are grouped by country, which can mean either that the funder offering the scheme is from that country, or that nationals of that country are eligible for the funding. For more information on the individual schemes, please contact the funding organisation via the web address provided. Please note that, given the wide geographical spread of the information, accuracy of the information cannot be guaranteed. Funding schemes can change quickly. Please check with the funder, either through its website or in person, before applying. If you believe any of the information below is inaccurate, or if there are any notable omissions, please contact international@royalsociety.org.

All Commonwealth Countries

Commonwealth Scholarships

If you are a citizen of a developed Commonwealth country, you can apply for:

  • Commonwealth Scholarships for PhD or split-site PhD study at a UK university

If you are a citizen of a developing Commonwealth country, you can apply for:

  • Commonwealth Scholarships for Master’s and PhD study at a UK university
  • Commonwealth Split-site (PhD) Scholarships for PhD candidates to spend up to 12 months in the UK as part of their doctoral studies
  • Commonwealth Shared Scholarships for Master’s study, for students from developing countries who would not otherwise be able to study in the UK, jointly supported by UK universities
  • Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships for Master’s study, for students from developing countries to study UK degree courses while living in their home countries
  • Commonwealth Academic Fellowships for early career academics from developing countries to conduct research and network
  • Commonwealth Professional Fellowships for mid-career professionals from developing countries to spend time at a UK organisation
  • Commonwealth Medical Fellowships for mid-career medical staff from developing countries to enhance their clinical skills

If you are a citizen of the Falkland Islands, St Helena or the Seychelles, you can apply for:

  • Commonwealth Scholarships for undergraduate study at a UK university

See: http://cscuk.dfid.gov.uk/apply/ 

Association of Commonwealth Universities

The following grants and fellowships are available to staff and/or students at ACU member universities:

  • Early Career Academic Grants
  • ACU Titular Fellowships
  • Event bursaries, including for delegates of the ACU Commonwealth Summer School
  • Gender workshop grants
  • BNET Commonwealth Fellowships in Education

See https://www.acu.ac.uk/membership/grants-fellowships/

The ACU also runs a wide range of international mobility and scholarship schemes:

  • Commonwealth Scholarships in low and middle income countries
  • Grants and fellowships for ACU members
  • Canada Memorial Foundation Scholarships
  • Chevening Scholarships
  • Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK
  • Edward Boyle Memorial Trust Medical Elective Bursaries
  • Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission

See https://www.acu.ac.uk/scholarships/ 

Lloyd's Register Foundation

The Lloyd’s Register Foundation supports engineering-related research, training and education, that makes a real difference in improving the safety of the critical infrastructure on which modern society relies. It funds projects around the world, and is creating a new Public Understanding of Risk Institute at the National University of Singapore. 

For more information see: http://www.lrfoundation.org.uk/funding/

Mauritius - Africa Scholarship Scheme 2017

The Government of the Republic of Mauritius offers scholarships for full-time on-campus undergraduate studies in Mauritius to deserving students of Member States of the African Union.

See http://www.tec.mu/

British Council - Institutional Links (Newton Fund)

The British Council provides grants for establishing links between higher education, research institutions and businesses with the aim of translating research to drive economic development and social welfare in partner countries. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/institutional-links 

A call is now open for collaborations between the UK with Kenya/Malaysia, which closes on 13 June 2017. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/current-opportunities/newton-institutional-links-april-2017

British Council Researcher Links (Newton Fund)

Researcher Links provides workshops and travel grants for research visits, with a focus on early career researchers.

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/researcher-links 

Researcher Links (non-Newton Fund)

Researcher Links provides workshops and travel grants for research visits, with a focus on early career researchers. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/researcher-links 

PhD Scholarships  

Facilitating the capacity building of individuals, and the building of sustainable, long-lasting links between UK and overseas institutions, through PhD scholarships, placements, and partnerships. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/newton-phd-programme 

Professional development and engagement 

Building the skills of researchers in areas such as communication and research management, as well as supporting good research governance, community and policymaker engagement. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/newton/PDE

Student Grants

The Sir Ernest Cassel Educational Trust provide grants for overseas students from developing Commonwealth countries, who are in their final year at a university in the United Kingdom and who are facing unforeseen financial difficulties.

See http://www.casseltrust.co.uk/ 

The Global Environment Facilities (GEF)

The GEF is an independent international financial entity established on the eve of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit to help defray the costs of making projects environmentally friendly and reduce environmental threats in developing countries. Some developing Commonwealth countries benefit from GEF funding.

See http://www.thegef.org/

SPHEIR (Strategic Partnerships for Higher Education Innovation and Reform)

SPHEIR aims to catalyse innovative ‘partnerships’ in low-income countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and the Middle East to improve the performance, governance and influence of higher education systems and institutions. SPHEIR partnerships seek to transform the quality, relevance, access and affordability of higher education to achieve sustainable change in higher education systems. The programme is established by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and managed by a consortium led by the British Council that includes PwC and Universities UK International (UUK). 

See http://www.spheir.org.uk/ and follow on social media via #SPHEIR.

The Africa Adaptation Fund (AAF)

The Adaptation Fund was established to finance concrete adaptation projects and programmes in developing countries that are parties to the Kyoto Protocol and are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. Since 2010, the Adaptation Fund has committed $354.89 million to support 61 countries, including 22 Least Developed Countries and 13 Small Island Developing States. 

See https://www.adaptation-fund.org/

Africa

The Southern African Regional Universities Association (SARUA)

SARUA was established in 2015 with a view to drive regional higher education. SARUA currently groups 66 public universities in 15 countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Commonwealth countries of SADC participate actively in SARUA. 

See http://www.sarua.org/

Australia Africa Universities Network (AAUN)

AAUN connects researchers and academics through institutional partnerships in order to address challenges facing both continents, including food security. 

See http://aaun.edu.au/ and http://aciar.gov.au/

African Economic Research Consortium (AERC)

The AERC, established in 1988 and based in Nairobi, Kenya, promotes the advancement of economic policy research and training. Offers M.Sc. and Ph.D. scholarships for African researchers. 

See http://www.aercafrica.org/

Business & NGOs Grants

A list of grants for Business, NGOs and Research institutions which run projects or programs to improve the livelihoods of local communities can be found at the following link: 

See http://www.space-africa.com/Grants-for-Business-and-NGOs.html

The Commonwealth Foundation 

The Commonwealth Foundation awards grants for sustainable development projects that contribute to effective, responsive and accountable governance with civil society participation. The project must take place in an eligible Commonwealth country.  

See http://www.opportunitiesforafricans.com/commonwealth-foundation-grants-2017-for-sustainable-development-projects/

ICSU/NASAC

As part of the 5-year “Leading Integrated Research for Agenda 2030 in Africa” programme, the International Council for Science (ICSU), in partnership with the Network of African Science Academies (NASAC) and the International Social Science Council (ISSC) will support 10 collaborative research projects across Africa (to the value of up to 90,000 Euro each over two years) that will advance the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 (sustainable cities and communities) in Africa.

See https://icsu.org/current/news/call-for-pre-proposals-advancing-the-implementation-of-sustainable-development-goal-11-on-cities-in-africa 

International Scholarships 

A list of International Scholarships for African Students can be found at the following link:

See http://www.advance-africa.com/Scholarships-for-African-Students.html

Alliance for Accelerating Excellence in Science in Africa (AESA)

The Alliance for Accelerating Excellence in Science in Africa (AESA), an initiative of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Agency, is an agenda setting and funding platform established to address Africa’s health and development challenges.

See http://www.aesa.ac.ke/ 

Australia

Australian Research Council

The Australian Research Council (ARC) is Australia’s main funding agency for research grants and provides a variety of opportunities to support international research collaboration in all disciplines (although clinical and other medical research are primarily supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council). All ARC funding schemes are open to international researchers, provided applications are made through an eligible Australian institution.

The ARC’s funding schemes include support for fundamental research, fellowships and collaborative research with industry, government and the community.

See http://www.arc.gov.au/ 

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is Australia’s peak body for supporting health and medical research. NHMRC funding supports research across the full spectrum of health and medical research, from basic science through to clinical, public health and health services research. NHMRC supports international engagement through a number of mechanisms. 

See https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/research/international-engagement

Cooperative Research Centres (CRC)

The Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) Programme supports industry-led and outcome focused collaborative research partnerships. There are two streams of funding under the programme: CRCs and CRC Projects (CRC-Ps). CRCs are long term collaborations of up to 10 years with no maximum limit to funding. CRC-Ps are short-term collaborations of up to 3 years with a maximum of $3 million in funding. The majority of CRCs have strong international collaborations and many have international participants.

See https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/cooperative-research-centres-programme  

Global Innovation Linkages

The Global Innovation Linkages programme supports Australian businesses and researchers to collaborate with global partners on strategically focused, leading-edge research and development projects. It supports projects focused on developing high quality products, services or processes that respond to industry challenges, with funding of up to $1 million per grant over a maximum period of four years.

See https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/global-innovation-linkages-programme 

Global Connections Fund

The Global Connections Fund supports global SME-to-researcher collaborations to enable viable projects to grow and test commercialisation in industries of strategic growth in Australia. There are two types of grants under the Fund:

  • Bridging Grants – grants of up to $50,000 designed as seed funding capital to enable viable projects to grow in scope and scale, test commercialisation and proof-of-concept activities.
  • Priming Grants – grants of around $7,000 to enable Australian SMEs and Australian researchers to meet and collaborate with international partners to further develop their ideas.

See https://globalconnectionsfund.org.au/   

Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF)

The Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF) helps Australian researchers from public and private sectors to participate with Indian scientists in leading-edge scientific research projects and workshops. The AISRF increases collaboration between Australian and Indian researchers and builds longer-term alliances between Australian and Indian research organisations. The AISRF supports collaborative projects, targeted workshops and early and mid-career research fellowships.

See http://www.science.gov.au/international/CollaborativeOpportunities/AISRF/Pages/default.aspx 

Australia Awards

The Australia Awards are a whole-of-government initiative bringing together scholarships and fellowships and short courses administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; the Department of Education and Training; and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. They offer the next generation of global leaders an opportunity to undertake study, research and professional development in Australia and for high-achieving Australians to do the same overseas.

See http://australiaawards.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx  

Australia Awards Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships

The Australia Awards Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships support two-way engagement between Australia and the rest of the world. They provide life changing opportunities for Australian and overseas students and professionals to access learning and research opportunities globally. This opportunity is offered to both post graduates and vocational students to undertake study, research or professional development opportunities.

See https://internationaleducation.gov.au/Endeavour%20program/Scholarships-and-Fellowships/Pages/default.aspx

New Colombo Plan

The New Colombo Plan is a signature initiative of the Australian Government which aims to lift knowledge of the Indo-Pacific in Australia by supporting Australian undergraduates to study and undertake internships in the region. Business is central to the program’s ability to provide meaningful, course-related work experiences, and there are opportunities for businesses in the region to host Australian students.

See http://dfat.gov.au/people-to-people/new-colombo-plan/Pages/new-colombo-plan.aspx

Australia Global Alumni Engagement Strategy 2016-2020

The Australia Global Alumni Engagement Strategy is promoting connections with and among alumni as they progress through their careers, providing opportunities for professional development, shared research and strengthened business connections.

See http://dfat.gov.au/about-us/publications/Documents/australia-global-alumni-engagement-strategy-2016-2020.pdf 

Australia’s Learned Academies

Australia’s Learned Academies play a critical role in promoting international engagement and providing opportunities for researchers and innovators to connect with counterparts globally:

Carnegie Wave Energy (Australia)

Carnegie Wave Energy (Australia) signed a Collaboration Agreement with the Mauritius Research Council in June 2015 to identify the opportunities and development pathways for commercial wave energy plants in Mauritius.

See http://carnegiewave.com/

Fellowship Visits and Joint Workshops

The Australian Academy of Science and the Indian National Science Academy cooperate on Fellowship Visits and Joint Workshops. 

See http://www.insa.nic.in/

Scholarships 

The Australian National University offer a wide range of scholarships for international students 

See http://www.anu.edu.au/students/scholarships 

Bangladesh 

COMSTECH-IFS Research Grants Program

COMSTECH (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) signed a memorandum of understanding with the International Foundation for Science (IFS) to strengthen of science and technology in the OIC (Origination of Islamic Cooperation) member states and to enhance research capability within the OIC region. This important program has financed 258 projects in various disciplines in 32 member states of the OIC. The countries supported under this programme include Bangladesh.

See http://www.comstech.org/comstech-ifs-joint.aspx

TWAS-COMSTECH Joint Research Grants 

Under this scheme grants are awarded to promising high-level research projects in earth sciences, engineering sciences, information technology and computer sciences, materials science including nanotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences and renewable energy carried out by young individual scientists in OIC countries.

See https://twas.org/opportunity/twas-comstech-joint-research-grants 

Cameroon 

COMSTECH-IFS Research Grants Program

COMSTECH (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) signed a memorandum of understanding with the International Foundation for Science (IFS) to strengthen of science and technology in the OIC (Origination of Islamic Cooperation) member states and to enhance research capability within the OIC region. This important program has financed 258 projects in various disciplines in 32 member states of the OIC. The countries supported under this programme include Cameroon.

See http://www.comstech.org/comstech-ifs-joint.aspx

Canada 

Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)

The SSHRC of Canada offer a wide range of funding opportunities available through three programs: Talent, Insight and Connection.

See http://www.sshrc-crsh.gc.ca/funding-financement/index-eng.aspx

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC)

The NSERC of Canada offer a wide range of funding opportunities in the natural sciences and engineering.

See http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Index_eng.asp

Canada’s Institutes for Health Research (CIHR)

The CIHR invests approximately $1 billion each year to support health research. This funding is divided into two types of research: investigator-driven and priority-driven.

For a full list of current funding opportunities see https://www.researchnet-recherchenet.ca/rnr16/search.do?fodAgency=CIHR&fodLanguage=E&all=1&search=true&org=CIHR&sort=program&masterList=true&view=currentOpps

The National Research Council (NRC)

The NRC of Canada sponsors a number of programs to provide students and post-graduate students the opportunity to develop their skills and expertise, while at the same time, gaining valuable experience working with research groups or leaders in Canadian government laboratories and research institutions.

For a full list of current funding opportunities see http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/

The Natural Research Canada (NRCan)

The NRCan provides support in the following areas: 

  • Energy Innovation Program
  • ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative
  • Clean Energy Fund
  • Program of Energy Research and Development (PERD)
    Please note that PERD only provides funding to federal departments and agencies. It is not a general funding or grant program for companies, associations or individuals.
  • EcoENERGY for Renewable Power

See https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/home

Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR)

The CIFAR supports a range of researchers in Canada and abroad to create and maintain global research networks working on complex areas of inquiry. 

See https://www.cifar.ca/

India-Canada Centre for Innovative Multidisciplinary Partnerships to Accelerate Community Transformation and Sustainability (IC-IMPACTS) 

IC-IMPACTS is the first, and only, Canada-India Research Centre of Excellence established through the Canadian Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) as a new Centre dedicated to the development of research collaborations between Canada and India. IC-IMPACTS focuses on supporting research, training of graduate students, knowledge mobilization and the development of healthy communities. It funds research in the areas of infrastructure, clean water and public health. IC-IMPACTS is working towards some new calls for proposals for the Fall of 2017. More information on IC-IMPACTS can be found at www.ic-impacts.com

Caribbean

The Caribbean Science Foundation (CSF) was established as an independent non-profit non-governmental organization in 2010 by the Caribbean Diaspora for Science, Technology and Innovation (CADSTI). CADSTI (see http://cadsti.org) has its center of gravity outside the Region, and its primary function is to mine and mobilize the resources in the world-wide Caribbean Diaspora in support of the CSF.

See http://caribbeanscience.org/about/ 

India

Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF)

The Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF) helps Australian researchers from public and private sectors to participate with Indian scientists in leading-edge scientific research projects and workshops. The AISRF increases collaboration between Australian and Indian researchers and builds longer-term alliances between Australian and Indian research organisations. The AISRF supports collaborative projects, targeted workshops and early and mid-career research fellowships.

See http://www.science.gov.au/international/CollaborativeOpportunities/AISRF/Pages/default.aspx

Joint Fellowships and Workshops

The Australian Academy of Science and the Indian National Science Academy cooperate on Fellowship Visits and Joint Workshops. 

See http://www.insa.nic.in/

Promotion 

The Department of Science and Technology of the Indian government promotes new areas of Science & Technology and plays the role of a nodal department for organizing, coordinating and promoting S&T activities in India and wider countries. Counties include Canada, Australia, and the UK.

See http://www.dst.gov.in/call-for-proposals 

Department of Biotechnology 

  • There is a call for applications under the Newton-Bhabha PhD placement programme 
  • The Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance & EMBO are looking to fund interdisciplinary meetings that cover the latest developments in research areas under-served in India

See http://www.dbtindia.nic.in/funding-mechanism/call/ 

Scholarships and Fellowships

The following link provides a list of Scholarships/Fellowships for College, University and Higher level studies for Indian students and researchers generally in the field of science and particularly in biotech or advanced life science branches:

See http://www.indiabiotech.in/Scholarships-Fellowships.htm

Wellcome Trust and DBT Fellowships 

The Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance is an £160 million initiative funded equally by the Wellcome Trust, UK and Department of Biotechnology, India. The broad aim of the India Alliance is to build excellence in the Indian biomedical scientific community by supporting future leaders in the field. There are fellowship funding opportunities. 

See http://www.wellcomedbt.org/fellowshipdeadlines

Collaboration of Indian National Science Academy (INSA) with Academies in Commonwealth Countries 

INSA has a wide range of bilateral collaborations with science academies in other countries, including and the African Academy of Science, the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, the Royal Society of Canada, the Mauritius Academy of Science and Technology, the Pakistan Academy of Sciences, the Academy of Science of South Africa, the National Academy of Sciences of Sri Lanka (NASSL), and the Royal Society of Edinburgh. 

See http://www.insa.nic.in/

India-Canada Centre for Innovative Multidisciplinary Partnerships to Accelerate Community Transformation and Sustainability (IC-IMPACTS) 

IC-IMPACTS is the first, and only, Canada-India Research Centre of Excellence established through the Canadian Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) as a new Centre dedicated to the development of research collaborations between Canada and India. IC-IMPACTS focuses on supporting research, training of graduate students, knowledge mobilization and the development of healthy communities. It funds research in the areas of infrastructure, clean water and public health. IC-IMPACTS is working towards some new calls for proposals for the Fall of 2017. More information on IC-IMPACTS can be found at www.ic-impacts.com

Kenya 

British Council Institutional Links 

Grants for establishing links between higher education, research institutions and businesses with the aim of translating research to drive economic development and social welfare in partner countries. For further information. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/institutional-links 

A call is now open for collaborations between the UK and Kenya/ Malaysia which closes on 13 June 2017

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/current-opportunities/newton-institutional-links-april-2017

Malaysia 

British Council Institutional Links 

Grants for establishing links between higher education, research institutions and businesses with the aim of translating research to drive economic development and social welfare in partner countries. For further information. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/institutional-links 

A call is now open for collaborations between the UK with Kenya/Malaysia, which closes on 13 June 2017. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/current-opportunities/newton-institutional-links-april-2017

COMSTECH-IFS Research Grants Program 

COMSTECH (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) signed a memorandum of understanding with the International Foundation for Science (IFS) to strengthen of science and technology in the OIC (Origination of Islamic Cooperation) member states and to enhance research capability within the OIC region. This important program has financed 258 projects in various disciplines in 32 member states of the OIC. The countries supported under this programme include Malaysia.

See http://www.comstech.org/comstech-ifs-joint.aspx

TWAS-COMSTECH, Joint Research Grants 

Under this scheme grants are awarded to promising high-level research projects in earth sciences, engineering sciences, information technology and computer sciences, materials science including nanotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences and renewable energy carried out by young individual scientists in OIC countries.

See https://twas.org/opportunity/twas-comstech-joint-research-grants

Mauritius

Carnegie Wave Energy (Australia) signed a Collaboration Agreement with the Mauritius Research Council in June 2015 to identify the opportunities and development pathways for commercial wave energy plants in Mauritius. 

See http://carnegiewave.com/ 

Research Funding in the Commonwealth 

Mauritius - Africa Scholarship Scheme 2017

The Government of the Republic of Mauritius offers scholarships for full-time on-campus undergraduate studies in Mauritius to deserving students of Member States of the African Union.  

See http://www.tec.mu/

The Mauritius Tertiary Education Commission  

The Mauritius Tertiary Education Commission Research Fellowship Scheme was established in 2010 to enable overseas researchers to advance their research in Mauritius.

See http://www.tec.mu/

The Mauritius Research Council (MRC)

The Mauritius Research Council (MRC) runs a number of Grant Schemes which are open to local and overseas partners, e.g. Collaborative Research and Innovation Grant Scheme (CRIGS), Biotechnology Research and Innovation Grant (BRIG), and the High Performance Computing Research and Innovation Grant (HPC-RIG) amongst others. 

See http://www.mrc.org.mu

The National Research Foundation (NRF)

The NRF of South Africa is giving an opportunity to the University of Mauritius to participate in the Square Kilometer Array Radio Telescope. The major partners for this project are South Africa and Australia. 

See http://www.nrf.ac.za/

Mozambique 

COMSTECH-IFS Research Grants Program

COMSTECH (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) signed a memorandum of understanding with the International Foundation for Science (IFS) to strengthen of science and technology in the OIC (Origination of Islamic Cooperation) member states and to enhance research capability within the OIC region. This important program has financed 258 projects in various disciplines in 32 member states of the OIC. The countries supported under this programme include Bangladesh.

See http://www.comstech.org/comstech-ifs-joint.aspx

TWAS-COMSTECH, Joint Research Grants 

Under this scheme grants are awarded to promising high-level research projects in earth sciences, engineering sciences, information technology and computer sciences, materials science including nanotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences and renewable energy carried out by young individual scientists in OIC countries.

See https://twas.org/opportunity/twas-comstech-joint-research-grants 

New Zealand 

Royal Society of New Zealand 

On behalf of the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment, the Royal Society Te Apārang currently administers programmes to facilitate collaborations between New Zealand and International Researchers. The programmes, however, can only be applied for by New Zealand researcher organisations.

See http://royalsociety.org.nz/programmes/funds/international/  

Royal Society of New Zealand - Catalyst: Seeding General grants

The Catalyst: Seeding General grants support new small and medium pre-research strategic partnerships that cannot be supported through other means. A maximum of NZ$80,000 (excl. GST) in total is available per proposal for projects lasting up to two years.

See https://royalsociety.org.nz/what-we-do/funds-and-opportunities/catalyst-fund/catalyst-seeding/current-open-call-2/dumont-durville-nz-france-science-and-technology-support-programme/

The Royal Society of New Zealand – Catalyst: Leaders International Leader Fellowship 

The International Leader Fellowships are intended to support the attraction by New Zealand Research Organisations of international fellows who can have a catalytic impact on New Zealand science capabilities and promote the importance of international cooperation in science. The Fellow must spend a minimum of 4 weeks per year in New Zealand with the Host institution for a period of up to three years. 

See: https://royalsociety.org.nz/what-we-do/funds-and-opportunities/catalyst-fund/catalyst-leaders/

Nigeria 

COMSTECH-IFS Research Grants Program 

COMSTECH (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) signed a memorandum of understanding with the International Foundation for Science (IFS) to strengthen of science and technology in the OIC (Origination of Islamic Cooperation) member states and to enhance research capability within the OIC region. This important program has financed 258 projects in various disciplines in 32 member states of the OIC. The countries supported under this programme include Nigeria.

See http://www.comstech.org/comstech-ifs-joint.aspx

TWAS-COMSTECH, Joint Research Grants 

Under this scheme grants are awarded to promising high-level research projects in earth sciences, engineering sciences, information technology and computer sciences, materials science including nanotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences and renewable energy carried out by young individual scientists in OIC countries.

See https://twas.org/opportunity/twas-comstech-joint-research-grants

Pakistan

Sri Lanka and Pakistan Joint Call for Proposals on Collaborative Research and Development – 2017

Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) and the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka (NSF) are the apex bodies for promotion and funding of scientific research and commercialization as well as science popularization in their respective countries.

Focusing on strengthened bilateral scientific cooperation, NSF and PSF are calling for proposals on joint research and development from research groups involving members from both countries.

See http://www.nsf.ac.lk/files/Guidelines_and_Criteria_of_the_Joint_Call_for_Proposals_newone.pdf 

Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS), Research Grants

Research projects funded by the PAS produce trained M.Phil. and Ph.D. graduates, as well as research publications in local and international scientific journals. PAS Research Funding also assists in institutional development by providing lab equipment, chemical supplies and other research requisites.

See http://www.paspk.org/research-grants/

Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS), Travel Grants 

The PAS provides travel grants, to the extent of economy class return air fare, to its Fellows and Members for their participation in scientific meetings, conferences, seminars, workshops abroad. Fellows are eligible to avail this facility once in each financial year.

See http://www.paspk.org/travel-grants/

Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS), Financial Support for Conferences 

The PAS provides funding to its Fellows for organizing Conferences on scientific topics of national importance.

See http://www.paspk.org/financial-support-for-conferences/

Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS), International Collaborations 

The PAS has a keen interest to collaborate with foreign Science Academies and has signed MoUs with Science Academies from various foreign countries. 

See http://www.paspk.org/international-collaborations/

COMSTECH-IFS Research Grants Program 

COMSTECH (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) signed a memorandum of understanding with the International Foundation for Science (IFS) to strengthen of science and technology in the OIC (Origination of Islamic Cooperation) member states and to enhance research capability within the OIC region. This important program has financed 258 projects in various disciplines in 32 member states of the OIC. The countries supported under this programme include Pakistan.

See http://www.comstech.org/comstech-ifs-joint.aspx

TWAS-COMSTECH, Joint Research Grants 

Under this scheme grants are awarded to promising high-level research projects in earth sciences, engineering sciences, information technology and computer sciences, materials science including nanotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences and renewable energy carried out by young individual scientists in OIC countries.

See https://twas.org/opportunity/twas-comstech-joint-research-grants

Pakistan Health Research Council (PHRC)

The PMRC is a public sector autonomous organization under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination. The Council funds projects submitted on subjects related to human health and disease, which are accepted from both the public and private sector. 

See http://phrc.org.pk/research-grant.html

Pakistan Program for Collaborative Research (PPCR)

The Pakistan Programme for Collaborative Research allows for university faculty working in Pakistan to go abroad, or for researchers from technological advanced countries to come to Pakistan. Preference is given to faculty members visiting foreign institutions that have recognized excellence in the relevant research area. The visits can last between one to four weeks but can be extended to more than four months in case of sabbaticals.

See http://hec.gov.pk/english/services/faculty/Pakistan%20Program%20for%20Collaborative%20Research/Pages/Introduction.aspx#sthash.SCCU5pqR.dpuf

Faculty Development Program for Pakistani Universities 

The Faculty Development for Split PhD scholarships are for faculty members of Pakistani HEC recognized Universities/DAIs with Masters degrees with minimum 18 years of education. The scholars will be required to start the initial research in Pakistan and at any point during research he/she would be required to proceed abroad for a maximum period of 6-12 months with the recommendations of a local supervisor and approval/ acceptance of a foreign supervisor for research / thesis work.

See http://hec.gov.pk/english/services/faculty/fdp/Pages/Introduction.aspx#sthash.357rTC4t.dpuf

Research Travel Grant and Workshops for University Faculty & Scholars

The Higher Education Commission's Travel Grant Program aims to provide an opportunity for the academic and scientific communities to boost their research activities in public and private sector universities and degree awarding institutes of Pakistan. Under this program, faculty and Ph.D. scholars are extended financial assistance for presentation of their research papers at national or international forums, which facilitates interaction with skilled academia and researchers in the relevant field.  

See http://hec.gov.pk/english/services/universities/GrantsforSeminarConferenceTraining/Pages/Introduction.aspx#sthash.78jY7bJl.dpuf

Linkage with UNESCO

The Pakistan Scientific and Technological Information Centre (PASTIC) is aimed at promoting the exchange of information and experience in science and technology in the Asia/Pacific Region. It consists of co-coordinating units in 18 member states. 

See http://pastic.gov.pk/ 

Singapore

Lloyd's Register Foundation

The Lloyd’s Register Foundation funds work globally that enhances the safety of life and property and advances public education. It is creating a new Public Understanding of Risk Institute at the National University of Singapore, and also has partnerships with Nanyang Technical University. Its funded programmes relate to the four strategic themes in its strategy: supporting excellent scientific research; accelerating the application of research; advancing skills and education; and promoting safety and public understanding of risk. Four research themes are prioritised: structural integrity and systems performance; resilience engineering; human and social factors; and emergent technologies. Researchers are encouraged to visit the Foundation‘s website to explore their eligibility for funding.

For more information see: http://www.lrfoundation.org.uk/funding/

South Africa

National Research Foundation

The NRF Vision 2015 acknowledges the importance of internationalising the science and technology environment in achieving the national social and economic development imperatives of South Africa and has thus strategically positioned internationalization as a cross-cutting agenda. Within this ambit, the International Relations and Cooperation (IRC) Directorate plays a contributing role in the promotion of research excellence, with regards to the internationalisation of research and higher education, and in particular to the concerted focus on Africa within the NRF. Through the synergies of its core initiatives and strategic projects, IRC strives to make a significant contribution to human capacity development in the national system of innovation, particularly relating to issue of redressing inequality. The mission of IRC within the NRF is multidimensional and cross-cutting.

See http://www.nrf.ac.za/division/irc/about 

Newton Fund

Under the UK-South Africa Newton Fund there are number of funding opportunities aimed at South Africans collaborating with British institutions:

  • Early and Advanced Career Fellowships – offered by British Academy, Royal Society, Academy of Medical Sciences in collaboration with South Africa’s NRF under Newton Fund
  • Bilateral UK-SA workshop grants – offered by British Council and SA NRF. Also trilateral workshops with Kenya (Newton – Utafiti Fund)
  • Research grants – currently funded in health and social sciences offered by UK MRC & SA Medical Research Council, ESRC and NRF. Future programmes will look at research in soils 
  • Bilateral research chair opportunities – already 3 in place with at least one other to follow. 3 or 5 year grants for research chairs, funded through British Council, British Academy and SA’s National Research Foundation
  • Leaders in Innovation Fellowship Programme – a programme sending young South African innovators on a three week training programme to the UK
  • Industry Academia Partnership – a programme to promote industry and academia links – funded through the Department of Higher Education and Training and UK’s Royal Academy of Engineering
  • The Development in Africa through Radio Astronomy Programme (DARA) – run through STFC and the Department of Science & Tech/SA 
  • The Square Kilometre Array looks to provide STEM training in radio astronomy in 8 countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, including Kenya 

See http://www.newtonfund.ac.uk/about/about-partnering-countries/south-africa/ 

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka and Pakistan Joint Call for Proposals on Collaborative Research and Development – 2017

Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) and the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka (NSF) are the apex bodies for promotion and funding of scientific research and commercialization as well as science popularization in their respective countries.

Focusing on strengthened bilateral scientific cooperation, NSF and PSF are calling for proposals on joint research and development from research groups involving members from both countries.

See http://www.nsf.ac.lk/files/Guidelines_and_Criteria_of_the_Joint_Call_for_Proposals_newone.pdf 

Uganda 

TWAS-COMSTECH, Joint Research Grants

Under this scheme grants are awarded to promising high-level research projects in earth sciences, engineering sciences, information technology and computer sciences, materials science including nanotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences and renewable energy carried out by young individual scientists in OIC countries.

See https://twas.org/opportunity/twas-comstech-joint-research-grants

COMSTECH-IFS Research Grants Program 

COMSTECH (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) signed a memorandum of understanding with the International Foundation for Science (IFS) to strengthen of science and technology in the OIC (Origination of Islamic Cooperation) member states and to enhance research capability within the OIC region. This important program has financed 258 projects in various disciplines in 32 member states of the OIC. The countries supported under this programme include Pakistan.

See http://www.comstech.org/comstech-ifs-joint.aspx

United Kingdom

If you are a citizen of the United Kingdom, you can apply for

  • Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships in other Commonwealth countries

See http://cscuk.dfid.gov.uk/apply/ 

Newton Fund - Institutional Links 

Grants for establishing links between higher education, research institutions and businesses with the aim of translating research to drive economic development and social welfare in partner countries. For further information. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/institutional-links 

A call is now open for collaborations between the UK and Kenya/Malaysia which closes on 13 June 2017. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/current-opportunities/newton-institutional-links-april-2017

British Council Researcher Links (Newton Fund)

Researcher Links provides workshops and travel grants for research visits, with a focus on early career researchers.

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/researcher-links 

British Council Researcher Links (non-Newton Fund)

Researcher Links provides workshops and travel grants for research visits, with a focus on early career researchers. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/researcher-links 

British Council PhD Scholarships  

Facilitating the capacity building of individuals, and the building of sustainable, long-lasting links between UK and overseas institutions, through PhD scholarships, placements, and partnerships.

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/newton-phd-programme 

Professional development and engagement 

Building the skills of researchers in areas such as communication and research management, as well as supporting good research governance, community and policymaker engagement. 

See https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/newton/PDE 

Research Councils UK (RCUK)

The RCUK, the strategic partnership of the UK's seven Research Councils, invest around £3 billion each year in research covering the full spectrum of academic disciplines from the medical and biological sciences to astronomy, physics, chemistry and engineering, social sciences, economics, environmental sciences and the arts and humanities.

The Research Councils run a number of schemes to support activities that foster international collaboration through initiating or further developing long term relationships between researchers in the UK and another country. These include establishing partnership links between research institutions, building on existing links between research groups and extending networks, and encouraging researchers from overseas to undertake research in the UK as well as UK researchers to spend time abroad. The Research Councils offer a number of opportunities depending on the type of collaboration being undertaken:

Stage 1 - First Links: funds to cover the travel and subsistence for short term visits usually from the UK to another country.

Stage 2 - A Broader Relationship: where there is already a more established relationship, researchers may wish to apply for funds to extend this relationship in the country of choice.

Stage 3 - Pilot Studies: where relationships are more mature it may be the case that researchers need financial support to carry out pilot research.

Stage 4 - Sustainable Interactions: dedicated schemes to support transnational collaboration or where the funding for international collaboration is embedded in the activities of programmes, often within the UK contribution to specific multilateral organisations.

A number of schemes in these sections are also relevant to Early Career Researchers.

See http://www.rcuk.ac.uk/international/funding/FundingOpps/ 

Global Challenges Research Fund

The Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) is a £1.5 billion fund announced by the UK Government to support cutting-edge research that addresses the challenges faced by developing countries through:

  • challenge-led disciplinary and interdisciplinary research
  • strengthening capacity for research and innovation within both the UK and developing countries
  • providing an agile response to emergencies where there is an urgent research need.

GCRF is administered through delivery partners including the Research Councils and national academies.

See http://www.rcuk.ac.uk/funding/gcrf/ 

Wellcome Trust

The Wellcome Trust is a global charitable foundation which currently funds research activity in more than 100 countries. 21% (£831m) of its current funding supports work outside the UK, with 14% (£524m) supporting research in low- and middle-income countries. The Wellcome Trust provides a range of funding schemes to support individuals, teams, resources, seed ideas, places and major initiatives in the following areas:

  • Biomedical science
  • Population health
  • Product development and applied research
  • Humanities and social science
  • Public engagement and creative industries 

See https://wellcome.ac.uk/funding