Deadline: 08-Apr-2026
The Royal Society of Edinburgh invites applications for International Joint Projects to support research collaboration between Scotland-based and international researchers. Funding of £3,000–£12,000 per project, matched by the overseas partner institution, supports bilateral projects across all academic disciplines, including travel and collaborative research activities.
Overview
The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) offers funding to foster international research collaboration between Scotland-based researchers and overseas partners. The programme supports knowledge exchange, joint experimentation, and co-creation of research outputs across all academic disciplines.
Key Objectives
- Promote bilateral research collaboration between Scotland and international institutions.
- Support projects that enable visits and exchanges between partner teams.
- Encourage inclusion of PhD students and early career researchers in collaborative projects.
- Strengthen international research networks and partnerships through structured joint initiatives.
Collaboration Streams
- Open Partner Collaboration: Applicants develop projects with a partner institution of their choice.
- Sister Academy Collaboration: Projects conducted with an institution under an existing Memorandum of Understanding with RSE.
Funding Details
- Funding range: £3,000 – £12,000 per project
- Match funding: Required from the international partner institution at an equivalent level
- Project duration: Up to 2 years, no minimum duration
- Start date window: 1 September 2026 – 28 February 2027
Eligibility Criteria
Scotland-Based Researchers
- Principal Investigator must hold postdoctoral status or equivalent.
- All team members must be affiliated with a Scottish higher education, further education, research, or cultural institution.
- PhD students may be included without affecting award value.
International Researchers
- Principal Investigator must hold postdoctoral status or equivalent.
- Must be employed by a higher education, research, or cultural institution.
- Fixed-term contracts must extend at least three months beyond project end.
- Early career researchers on staged contracts must maintain employment for full project duration.
Project Requirements
- Bilateral focus: One team in Scotland, one in the partner institution.
- Single-project scope: Collaboration must concentrate on one research project.
- Exchange visits: Visits required in both directions, typically one return journey each way, unless justified.
How to Apply
- Identify collaboration stream: Choose either open partner or Sister Academy.
- Confirm eligibility: Ensure all Scotland-based and international team members meet requirements.
- Develop project plan: Include objectives, methodology, team roles, and bilateral visit schedule.
- Secure match funding: International partner must confirm equivalent financial contribution.
- Submit application: Follow RSE submission guidelines before the deadline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overlooking the requirement for bilateral collaboration.
- Failing to secure match funding from the international partner institution.
- Including team members who do not meet postdoctoral or equivalent eligibility.
- Neglecting to plan exchange visits or justify deviations from standard travel expectations.
- Submitting proposals outside the start date window (1 September 2026 – 28 February 2027).
FAQs
1. Who can apply from Scotland?
Researchers holding postdoctoral or equivalent status, affiliated with Scottish higher education, further education, research, or cultural institutions.
2. Are PhD students eligible to participate?
Yes, they may be included without affecting award value.
3. How much funding is provided?
£3,000 – £12,000 per project, with matching contribution from the international partner.
4. Which disciplines are eligible?
All academic disciplines are eligible for funding.
5. Are visits required?
Yes, visits are required in both directions, typically one return journey each way unless justified.
6. What is the maximum project duration?
Up to 2 years, with no minimum duration.
7. When can projects start?
Projects must begin between 1 September 2026 and 28 February 2027.
Why This Funding Matters
The RSE International Joint Projects grant fosters global collaboration, knowledge exchange, and research innovation. By supporting bilateral partnerships and facilitating researcher mobility, it strengthens Scotland’s international research networks and contributes to high-impact outcomes across disciplines.
Conclusion
The Royal Society of Edinburgh International Joint Projects Grant provides a unique opportunity for Scotland-based researchers to collaborate globally. By combining resources, expertise, and bilateral exchange, applicants can advance innovative research, foster international partnerships, and enhance the global reach of Scottish research.
For more information, visit The Royal Society of Edinburgh.