If you’re a researcher passionate about using smart data to solve real-world problems, here’s an exciting opportunity: the Smart Data Research UK Fellowships 2025 are now open for applications. Backed by the UK’s Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), this program invites researchers from UK institutions to carry out innovative studies that make a real impact on society.
What Is This Fellowship About?
The Smart Data Research UK Fellowships aim to support research that uses smart data—data collected from everyday digital activity like mobile apps, loyalty cards, social media, or wearable tech—to address challenges relevant to the UK. These could include issues related to public health, digital misinformation, sustainability, or economic prosperity.
Projects must relate to at least one of these four key research areas:
- Productivity and Prosperity for All
- Health and Wellbeing
- Digital Society
- Sustainability.
Fellowship Funding and Duration
- Total Available Fund: £2 million
- Maximum Award Per Project: £200,000 (80% funded by ESRC)
- Project Length: Up to 18 months
- Project Start Date: February 1, 2026
In addition to salary and project costs, the fellowship supports impact-oriented activities such as community engagement, policy influence, and research dissemination.
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is open to researchers based in UK institutions that are eligible for ESRC funding. Here’s what you should know:
- Researchers from all career stages can apply—early-career applicants are especially encouraged.
- You do not need to be an expert in smart data—those new to this field can apply with mentoring and skill-building plans.
- Applicants must commit significant time to the project (ideally 60% or more of full-time hours).
Not eligible:
- International researchers not based in the UK
- Applicants heavily involved in other SDR UK projects
- Those holding overlapping SDR UK grants.
What Your Research Should Do?
Your project must:
- Use smart data effectively (can be combined with traditional data)
- Address a clear and important UK-based real-world problem
- Demonstrate potential for positive public, social, or economic impact
- Include strong plans for knowledge sharing, stakeholder involvement, and community engagement.
Apply: https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/smart-data-research-uk-fellowships/
Application Timeline
The application process for the Smart Data Research UK Fellowships 2025 opens on 15 July 2025 at 9:00 AM (UK time) and closes on 23 September 2025 at 4:00 PM (UK time). All applications must be submitted through the new UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Funding Service platform by the deadline.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin early, as submissions cannot be modified after the deadline and late applications will not be accepted. Selected projects will begin on 1 February 2026 and may run for up to 18 months.