CATALYST AWARD
Funding to support researchers without prior experience of leading a significant research project – to accelerate their trajectory as independent researchers, to unlock their potential, and to build leadership and convenor experience through the delivery of ambitious or complex projects.
This scheme takes a people-centred approach, with funding available to support the development of researchers and their research ideas. Applications are welcomed from:
- teams
- networks
- solo researchers
Development is at the core of this award. Projects must clearly articulate how the funding will contribute to the development of all those involved through the way that the project has been designed and will be managed, with appropriate support structures in place.
ELIGIBILITY
Eligibility is determined on the basis of funding history. Candidates cannot be a current or former project lead on AHRC or other UKRI research grants or fellowship grants (exceptions apply), nor can they be a current or former project lead on research grants or fellowship grants from any other funder (with the exception of awards that reasonably meet the aims of named AHRC schemes – see page two of the below guidance).
VALUE AND DURATION
Funding is available for projects up to five years in duration and £300,000 FEC.
KEY DATES
Call opens: 31 October 2024
Deadline: 30 January 2025
Full details below and on the opportunity webpage.
CURIOSITY AWARD
Support for fundamental research that leads to new research agendas, networking activity and idea generation which enables the development of further research opportunities and new research agendas.
Projects can be single discipline, interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary, but the majority of the disciplinary focus of the project must fall within the AHRC’s subject remit. Practice-based and practice-led research is supported by this scheme.
An indicative list of examples of funded activities is included below. You are encouraged to request and justify costs for activities that best meet the aims of your project. This may include:
- idea generation
- seed corn funding
- high risk and high potential concepts
- novel research
- networking activity
- partnership building
- knowledge exchange
- public engagement
- international collaboration
- scoping and piloting, for example, early-stage proof of concept for ideas or change of direction
- pivots in research focus at any career stage
- mentoring for members of the research team
ELIGIBILITY
Applications are welcomed from researchers across all career stages, from early career to established researchers. There are no specific qualification requirements, and you do not necessarily need a PhD.
VALUE AND DURATION
Funding is available for projects up to five years in duration and £100,000 FEC.
KEY DATES
Call opens: 31 October 2024
Deadline: 30 January 2025
Full details below and on the opportunity webpage.
The launch of the Curiosity and Catalyst Award schemes were supported by a webinar for prospective applicants that presented an overview of the schemes, followed by an opportunity to ask questions. The webinar was recorded, and a copy can be found below.