Bristol 'Next Generation' Visiting Researcher Programme

This call is closed and has been replaced by our new funding schemes:

The Bristol 'Next Generation' Visiting Researcher Programme has been designed to support the next generation of research, helping to enhance the University of Bristol’s reputation as a centre for research excellence and innovation.

‘Next Generation’ has a dual meaning: this scheme can support researchers at any stage – including distinguished Professors – to undertake preliminary work on blue skies research projects, exploring exciting, innovative new research spaces; however, it also opens the door for future research leaders who are less senior in their careers but have shown great potential. For these awards we would encourage applicants to consider a ‘mentorship’ approach for applications, whereby the UoB host could be a more senior researcher – where appropriate – to help maximise the success and outcomes of the international visit. Visitors and hosts who are at equivalent career stages are, however, also very welcome to apply to this scheme.

‘Next Generation’ awards are for placements of up to six weeks, during which they will undertake world-leading, curiosity-driven research in partnership with UoB academics. The scheme offers ideal conditions in which to stretch the boundaries of the academic field in question, with generous and peaceful space for work and life provided, along with monies set aside for travel to Bristol and subsistence during the stay. Our recently refurbished bespoke building for academic visitors, Principal’s House at 1 University Walk, is a haven right in the heart of the university’s central precinct. It provides self-catering accommodation with generous living areas, as well as communal and office space which can be used for meetings. Visitors will also have use of the Verdon-Smith Room, Royal Fort House for workshops or seminars.

A visit to the University of Bristol will encourage long-lasting international research partnerships, developing research through co-authored publications and collaborative research funding bids. In addition to working with their host and host department colleagues, Visiting Researchers will have opportunities to work with research-active UoB members at all levels, from postgraduate to emeriti, and they will have the chance to schedule a suite of internal and public-facing activities, from consultations and masterclasses to workshops, public lectures and performances. The Bristol ‘Next Generation’ Visiting Researcher scheme therefore offers fantastic mutual benefits for both the visitor and the host, and over time the cumulative effect of these international research collaborations will produce a truly global community of scholars and advancement across a range of research fields.