ESRC Funding: Supporting Social Science Research

The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) is the UK's largest organisation dedicated to funding social science research. As part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the ESRC invests public money in high-quality, independent research that addresses key societal challenges and contributes to economic prosperity and social well-being. ESRC finance supports a wide range of activities, from individual research grants to large-scale, multi-disciplinary research centres and training programs. The ESRC's funding strategy is shaped by the UK government's research priorities and the evolving needs of society. They prioritize research that has the potential to make a significant impact on policy and practice, fostering collaboration between researchers, policymakers, businesses, and the wider public. This emphasis on impact is a key feature of ESRC funding. ESRC funding comes primarily in the form of grants awarded through competitive peer review processes. Researchers from universities and research institutions across the UK can apply for funding to conduct original research in various social science disciplines, including economics, sociology, political science, psychology, geography, anthropology, and education. The ESRC also funds interdisciplinary research that bridges traditional disciplinary boundaries. Several funding schemes are available, each designed to support different stages of a researcher's career and different types of research projects. Standard grants typically support established researchers pursuing in-depth investigations. New Investigator Grants are targeted at early-career researchers looking to establish their research profile. Large grants, often awarded to consortia of researchers, support ambitious, multi-year projects that address complex societal issues. Beyond individual research projects, the ESRC invests heavily in research infrastructure. This includes funding for large-scale surveys, data archives, and research centres. These resources provide researchers with access to the data and facilities they need to conduct cutting-edge research. Examples include the UK Data Service, which provides access to a wide range of social and economic data, and the Administrative Data Research UK (ADR UK), which facilitates access to anonymized administrative data for research purposes. Training and skills development are also a central component of ESRC finance. The ESRC supports doctoral training through Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs), which provide funding for PhD studentships across various universities. These DTPs aim to equip the next generation of social scientists with the skills and knowledge necessary to address future challenges. Furthermore, the ESRC invests in postdoctoral training and career development programs to support researchers at all stages of their careers. The impact of ESRC funding is far-reaching. Research funded by the ESRC has informed policy decisions in areas such as education, healthcare, crime, and welfare. It has also contributed to the development of new technologies and business models, and has helped to improve the lives of people in the UK and around the world. The ESRC's commitment to rigorous, independent research ensures that policy and practice are informed by the best available evidence. As a result, ESRC finance plays a vital role in shaping a more just, equitable, and prosperous society.