The Grand Union DTP offers its ESRC-funded students access to support collaborations with non-academic organisations, involving a strong knowledge exchange dimension of benefit to both parties. This will usually be carried out via a placement or internship arrangement. It might involve research that is related to your project (but not fieldwork), or working on a project that is of interest to you, utilises your research skills and might help you explore a potential career path in practice.
Please see our 'Placements' section on the website for advice, case studies, and opportunities.
Students may also wish to consider the UKRI Policy Internships Scheme which provides the opportunity for PhD students funded by the research councils of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to work for three months in one of a selected group of highly influential policy organisations. Details of the scheme, along with the next call for applications can be found on the UKRI website.
You should apply to the DTP Office of your home institution at least 3 months before the proposed trip to ensure time for consideration and to give you plenty of planning time (if you have concerns about meeting this timeframe, please contact your local DTP office). Applications received within 3 months of the intended activity will be reviewed in exceptional circumstances and for applications we receive within 1 month we may not be able review or provide support for the activity.
Please ensure you read the guidelines for further details on the scheme and applying for support.
As per ESRC guidelines, the DTP is not permitted to fund any travel (or associated costs) to areas or countries the UK Government or Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against visiting. For the purposes of Covid-19 travel guidance, non-essential travel includes OIVs, placements, training and conferences.
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