IJURR Foundation announces Writing-Up Grants

The IJURR Foundation Writing-Up Grant provides up to £6,000 to support postgraduate researchers in urban and regional studies, particularly from low- and middle-income countries. The grant is designed to assist PhD students in the final stages of their dissertations, helping cover costs such as university fees, accommodation, or essential equipment. It prioritizes research that critically examines social, economic, and political processes in urban and regional contexts.

Overview

The IJURR Foundation supports postgraduate research in urban and regional studies, emphasizing the interconnection of social, economic, and political processes. The Writing-Up Grant specifically helps doctoral students finalize their dissertations by providing financial assistance for essential expenses.

Focus Areas

Eligible research should:

• Critically examine urban and regional policies, including both intended and unintended consequences.

• Avoid purely technical approaches, situating research within broader social, political, and economic contexts.

• Include interdisciplinary perspectives, welcoming applications from:

  • Sociologists, political scientists, geographers, economists, and town planners

  • Lawyers, cultural theorists, anthropologists, and historians

Who is Eligible

• Doctoral (PhD) students in urban and regional studies.

• Applicants from low- and middle-income countries as classified by the World Bank.

• Preference for students who completed undergraduate studies in their home country or another low/middle-income country.

• Applicants must have completed all fieldwork and begun the writing-up stage of their dissertation.

• Students who have previously received an IJURR Foundation studentship are not eligible.

Why It Matters

• Provides crucial support to researchers in underrepresented regions.

• Enables students to complete high-quality dissertations on urban and regional development.

• Strengthens global understanding of social, economic, and political dynamics in cities and regions.

Grant Details

• Amount: Up to £6,000 (higher amounts considered in special hardship cases).

• Use of Funds: University fees, accommodation, or essential research equipment.

• Conditions: No extensions granted; applicants must provide proof of ongoing PhD registration and supervisory support.

How to Apply

1. Complete the application form provided by the IJURR Foundation.

2. Submit two academic references from supervisors or relevant academic mentors.

3. Provide evidence of current PhD registration and expected dissertation submission date.

4. Demonstrate that fieldwork is completed and writing-up is underway, ideally with submission planned within six months of the award.

5. Submit applications by the deadline outlined on the IJURR Foundation website.

Tips for Applicants

• Clearly show how your research fits within the Foundation’s focus on social, economic, and political processes.

• Ensure all required documents, especially references and proof of registration, are complete.

• Highlight any challenges or financial hardship that may support consideration for increased funding.

FAQ

1. Who can apply for the IJURR Writing-Up Grant?
PhD students from low- or middle-income countries who are in the writing-up phase of their urban or regional research.

2. What can the grant be used for?
Funds may cover university fees, accommodation, or essential equipment expenses.

3. Can students who received previous IJURR funding apply?
No, students who have previously been awarded an IJURR studentship are ineligible.

4. Is there a minimum or maximum grant duration?
The grant is a one-time award; no extensions are provided.

5. Do applicants need completed fieldwork?
Yes, all fieldwork must be finished before applying, with dissertation writing in progress.

6. Are interdisciplinary projects eligible?
Yes, the Foundation encourages submissions from multiple disciplines beyond traditional social sciences.

7. Is there a preference for where students completed their undergraduate studies?
Yes, preference is given to students who completed their first degree in their home country or another low- or middle-income country.

Conclusion

The IJURR Foundation Writing-Up Grant is a vital resource for doctoral researchers in urban and regional studies, providing financial support to complete their dissertations while promoting critical, interdisciplinary approaches. This grant strengthens research capacity in low- and middle-income countries and contributes to a deeper understanding of urban and regional processes globally.