Ignite Innovation – Connect, collaborate, create

The Doctoral Academy Ignite Innovation is a new funding opportunity designed to empower PGRs through a PGR-led initiative fund. This competitive call invites PGRs to submit proposals for a grant of up to £2,500 to support the delivery of initiatives that will create lasting positive impact on the PGR community.

What we are looking for

We encourage well-defined, PGR-led proposals that foster collaboration, innovation, and have a lasting influence on the PGR community. This fund is aimed at supporting strategic initiatives that align with the following key themes:

Equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility (EDIA): Projects that address and improve EDIA within the PGR community, supporting underrepresented or marginalised groups.
Wellbeing: Initiatives that enhance wellbeing and wellness for PGRs.
Building the research community: Efforts to strengthen the PGR research culture and sense of community.
Promoting inter-disciplinarity: Projects that bridge disciplines, encouraging collaboration across different research areas within the faculty.

These themes are aligned with feedback from the PGR Voice Survey, Athena SWAN commitments, and the broader UKRI New Deal for Postgraduate Research, which seeks to support diverse PGR experiences, especially those of people with disabilities, those with caring responsibilities, and those with intersectional experiences.

We encourage applications from PGRs or groups of PGRs from across the faculty, and priority will be given to proposals that:

Demonstrate lasting positive impact on the PGR community (especially for underrepresented groups, although all initiatives will be considered), with consideration for how impact will be measured.
Empower PGRs to manage and deliver their own initiatives.
Provide opportunities for PGRs to develop key skills in project management and engagement.
Provide opportunities for PGRs beyond a single department (although single-department initiatives will still be considered).

Measuring success and further development

Upon completing the project, successful PGRs will be required to submit an evaluation report to share their experience and help shape future development of the scheme. They may also be invited to share their experiences and initiatives at Doctoral Academy or Researcher Development events. Project summaries will be featured on the Doctoral Academy website and other social platforms.

How to apply

As part of your application, you will need to include a proposal of up to 1000 words. Proposals should outline your initiative, its expected impact, and how it aligns with the strategic objectives outlined above. You must include a clear and detailed breakdown of how the requested funds (up to £2,500) will be used to deliver the initiative.

Application deadline

Please complete and return this form to FSE.doctoralacademy@manchester.ac.uk by 5pm on Monday, 9 December 2024.

This is your opportunity to connect, collaborate, and create innovative solutions that enhance the PGR experience within FSE.

If you have any questions, please contact: FSE.doctoralacademy@manchester.ac.uk