LSSI call for challenge-led, multi-disciplinary research ‘Big Ideas’
LSSI have launched a new scheme inviting colleagues to come forward with innovative ideas they would like to develop into a cross-disciplinary application for a research centre or large grant to a major research funder.
We are seeking to support high quality research involving committed multi-disciplinary teams that have identified a timely, important and ambitious social science led research agenda and programme suitable for a centre or large grant application. With funders increasingly looking to support longer and larger grants and decreasing timescales between call and deadline, we are aiming to help colleagues to access timely support, and be more prepared for opportunities, reducing the stress of applying for large grants and increasing chance of success.
Applicants are invited to submit a single page summary of their interdisciplinary research programme ‘big idea’. Ideas should be interdisciplinary and/or challenge-led, and involve investigators or other partners from across and/or outside the social sciences, or from other organisations.
All applicants will receive some feedback and advice on their idea to help plan and develop towards a funding application. Selected applicants will be asked to present a 10 minute pitch to a Review Panel of social science academics from a range of disciplines with experience of leading large or interdisciplinary research programmes, and research support staff. This will be followed by 15 – 20 minutes to discuss the idea directly with you and provide honest and constructive feedback. 2 or 3 of the strongest applications will receive more in-depth on-going support from LSSI to prepare towards a future funding opportunity.
We held a successful and well-attended information session held on 18th October, looking more closely at the funding environment, the purpose of the call, the types of ideas we’re looking for and how to apply. If you would like more information from this session, a copy of the call document and FAQs, or if you have any questions, please contact Alison Lundbeck. The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Monday 19th November 2018.