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International Science Partnerships Fund International Collaboration Awards. Deadline 25 June 2024

About the scheme 

The ISPF International Collaboration Awards provide funding to enable outstanding emerging research leaders in the UK to develop research collaborations with international partners. The grants are open to newly independent researchers building their own group, who are ready to lead and drive the research vision of an international research programme. 

The objectives of the scheme are to:

  • Support the development of sustainable and mutually beneficial collaborative partnerships and the growth of international research networks
  • Enable newly independent researchers to generate new approaches to challenging research questions
  • Build the capabilities of newly independent researchers and their groups to conduct, manage, share and apply high quality research through sharing of knowledge, skills and exchange of people

This scheme is currently available to collaborate with international partners in: 

  • Japan
  • South Korea – co-funding with the National Research Foundation of Korea 
  • Brazil (plus Least Developed Countries) - ODA-eligible projects
  • South Africa (plus Least Developed Countries) - ODA-eligible projects

It forms part of the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) under the theme of “Tomorrow’s Talent – Nurturing talent to drive inclusion, research and innovation.”

Please note that application rounds are currently open to selected countries and may be reopened or expanded in the future.

The Royal Society recognises that diversity is essential for delivering excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The Society wants to encourage applications from the widest range of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences to maximise innovation and creativity in science for the benefit of humanity. We regularly review and revise policies and processes to embed equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles in all aspects of the grant making process and ensure all talented applicants have an equitable chance to succeed as per assessment criteria. 

See below for details of adjustments we can provide for disabled applicants. 

What does the scheme offer?

Applications can apply to the Royal Society for up to £225,000 over three years (£75,000 per year). ODA-eligible applications which include Least Developed Countries can apply for additional funding. Applications with South Korea can apply for additional funding for the Korean side of up to 360 Mil. (120 Mil. per year) South Korean Won (KRW) from NRF.

Funds can cover: 

  • research expenses
  • travel and subsistence for the applicants or members of their team
  • contribution towards research assistance
  • technical and non-technical training

This scheme does not cover applicant salary or indirect costs. Full funding details can be found in the scheme notes and in the Funding Guidance for International Collaboration Awards specific to each call.