Are you a newly independent researcher in the UK, passionate about global collaboration and ready to lead groundbreaking scientific work with international peers? The Royal Society’s International Collaboration Awards under the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) offer a major funding opportunity to kick-start your international research career.
What’s This Scheme All About?
The ISPF International Collaboration Awards are designed to support early-career UK-based researchers in developing long-term, equitable, and impactful partnerships with collaborators in selected international countries. This initiative aligns with the “Tomorrow’s Talent” theme to drive inclusion, innovation, and global scientific progress.
Benefits of the ISPF International Collaboration Awards
Successful applicants can receive:
- Up to £225,000 in total funding over three years (£75,000 per year) from the Royal Society
- Additional funding for ODA-eligible research with Brazil, South Africa, and Least Developed Countries
- Additional co-funding of up to ₩360 million KRW (₩120 million/year) for Korean partners from the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)
- Covered costs include:
- Research expenses
- Travel and subsistence for UK and international team members
- Research assistance
- Technical and non-technical training.
Note: The scheme does not fund applicant salaries or indirect costs.
Who’s Eligible?
You are eligible to apply if you:
- Are a newly independent researcher based in the UK and leading your own research group
- Have an independent international collaborator from one of the eligible partner countries
- Hold an independent academic post or named fellowship for the full duration of the grant
- Submit a co-developed research proposal with your international collaborator
- Conduct research within the Royal Society’s remit in natural sciences, including (but not limited to):
- Biology and biomedical sciences
- Chemistry
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physics.
Special Note: For Brazil and South Africa, the research must meet Official Development Assistance (ODA) compliance.
Apply: https://royalsociety.org/grants/international-collaboration-awards-ispf/
The last date to apply for the International Collaboration Awards 2025 offered by the Royal Society is 08 July 2025.