Research Engagement Fund
Please note: this funding is only available to doctoral researchers who receive fees and scholarship (or fees only) from SGSAH through the Applied Research Collaborative Studentships (ARCS), AHRC Doctoral Training Partnership and Collaborative Doctoral Awards (CDAs).
The Research Engagement Fund supports doctoral researchers to undertake activities that enhance their research, training and professional development.
Funding can be used for activities including:
- Fieldwork and archival research
- Essential language learning
- Specialist training and workshops
- Practice-based research costs
- Knowledge exchange and impact activities
- Visiting Doctoral Researcher (VDR) placements
Researchers may apply to the fund more than once, subject to available funding.
Visiting Doctoral Researcher Scheme
The Visiting Doctoral Researcher (VDR) Scheme forms part of the Research Engagement Fund and enables AHRC-funded doctoral researchers to spend up to six months at a host institution outside Scotland, typically overseas.
Please note:
- The VDR Scheme is available to AHRC-funded doctoral researchers only.
- Researchers may not undertake more than one VDR placement or Research Internship/Artist Residency during their doctoral studies.
- Applications should be submitted at least six months before the proposed start date.
Conference Funding
Conference attendance is not eligible under the Research Engagement Fund for AHRC-funded doctoral researchers. AHRC-funded students should apply through their institution's Research Training Support Grant (RTSG).
However, SFC-funded, or ARCS, doctoral researchers may use Research Engagement Funding to support conference attendance.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the SGSAH online application portal using a single application form for both Research Engagement Funding and the Visiting Doctoral Researcher Scheme.
Application closing dates: 17:00 on the first Monday of every month (excluding public holidays).
We recommend submitting applications:
- At least three months before research engagement activities such as fieldwork, archival visits or training.
- At least six months before the planned start date of a VDR placement.
- Retrospective applications cannot be considered.
Guidance and Eligibility
Before applying, please read the Research Engagement Fund Guidance, which provides detailed information on:
- Eligibility
- Eligible and ineligible costs
- Budget preparation
- Assessment criteria
- Award administration
- Research Engagement Fund Guidance (SGSAH Intranet login required)