Empowering Researchers to Address Global Challenges | ODA Global Innovation Fellowships

Empowering Researchers to Address Global Challenges: The ODA Global Innovation Fellowships

The ODA (Official Development Assistance) Global Innovation Fellowships present a unique opportunity for early and mid-career researchers in the UK, particularly those in the humanities and social sciences. This initiative is designed to help scholars build their expertise, expand professional connections, and advance their careers across the creative, cultural, public, private, and policy sectors. The programme supports researchers in applying innovative solutions to global challenges by fostering collaborations beyond academia, enabling knowledge-sharing, and promoting skill development.

About the ODA Global Innovation Fellowships

These fellowships form part of the £337 million International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), a significant initiative aimed at strengthening the UK's global research and innovation network. The ISPF, managed by the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT), is delivered through a consortium of the UK's top research organisations. It focuses on advancing prosperity by addressing major global issues and fostering international collaboration.

Since the ISPF is funded through ODA, all applications must align with ODA eligibility criteria to be considered for assessment.

Fellowship Opportunity with the Igarapé Institute

This call provides selected fellows with the chance to collaborate with the Igarapé Institute at its Brazil office. The Igarapé Institute is a globally recognised independent think-and-do tank dedicated to addressing public, climate, and digital security concerns and their impact on democracy. The institute actively engages in research, technological innovations, strategic communication, and policy advocacy.

Operating as a non-profit, independent, and non-partisan organisation headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, the Igarapé Institute partners with governments, private entities, and civil society across more than 20 countries to develop data-driven solutions to pressing global challenges.

A Collaborative and Beneficial Partnership

The fellowship aims to create a mutually beneficial relationship between the award recipients and the Igarapé Institute. Through this collaboration, fellows will gain:

Fresh perspectives on global policy challenges.
Expanded professional networks across policy and academia.
Enhanced research and communication skills through direct engagement with experts.

This initiative provides an invaluable opportunity to bridge the gap between academic research and practical policymaking, facilitating the mobilisation and translation of knowledge into actionable solutions.

Areas of Research Focus

Researchers are encouraged to apply in any of the following focus areas:

Citizen Security
Digital Security
Climate Security
International Security

Key Dates and Award Details

Applications Open: 20 December 2024
Application Deadline: 19 February 2025, 17:00 GMT
Fellowship Duration: 12 months
Funding Available: Up to £150,000, with Full Economic Costing at 80%.

Prospective applicants should carefully review the scheme guidance notes before submitting their application. These notes provide crucial details regarding eligibility requirements, the application process, and assessment criteria.

The ODA Global Innovation Fellowships offer an unparalleled opportunity for UK-based researchers to engage in meaningful global collaborations, apply their expertise to real-world policy challenges, and make a lasting impact. Through partnerships like the one with the Igarapé Institute, the fellowship fosters the exchange of ideas and innovative solutions that contribute to addressing some of the most pressing global security and governance issues today.

For those passionate about research and its application in solving global challenges, this fellowship is a gateway to new opportunities, skill-building, and global engagement.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Scholarship at Uniplus Global to apply