International Science Partnerships Fund 2025 Inviting Applications

The Royal Society has opened applications for the prestigious International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) International Collaboration Awards, offering exceptional early-career UK researchers the chance to build high-impact international collaborations. This opportunity supports those establishing their own research group and looking to lead collaborative global scientific projects.

About the Award

The ISPF International Collaboration Awards are designed to empower newly independent researchers based in the UK to develop strong, lasting partnerships with peers in Japan, South Korea, Brazil, South Africa, and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). These awards are part of the Royal Society’s “Tomorrow’s Talent” theme under the International Science Partnerships Fund, which focuses on nurturing research talent to advance innovation and inclusion.

Researchers will co-develop and lead groundbreaking projects, engaging across natural sciences disciplines—including biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering.

Benefits of the Award

• Up to £225,000 in funding over 3 years (£75,000 per year)
• Additional funding for ODA-eligible partnerships (e.g., Brazil, South Africa, and LDCs)
• Co-funding for Korean partnerships of up to 360 million KRW (120 million KRW per year)
• Covered costs include: Research expenses, travel and subsistence, research assistance support, and technical and non-technical training.

Note: Salaries and indirect costs are not covered.

Countries and Calls Open

• Japan
• South Korea (in collaboration with the National Research Foundation of Korea)
• Brazil (ODA-eligible research only)
• South Africa (ODA-eligible research only)
• *Least Developed Countries (ODA-focused research)

The Royal Society emphasizes inclusivity and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. The program is designed to maximize global collaboration and innovation.

Eligibility Criteria

This opportunity is ideal if you:

• Collaborate with an international counterpart also at the same career stage in one of the eligible countries
• Hold an independent research post or named fellowship for the full duration of the grant
• Propose a project within the natural sciences, as defined by the Royal Society
• Focus on ODA-compliant research for Brazil/South Africa/LDC partnerships

Apply: https://royalsociety.org/grants/international-collaboration-awards-ispf/

The last date to apply for the International Science Partnerships Fund – International Collaboration Awards is 8 July 2025.