Every researcher needs funding. This is always the most challenging part of research. To carry out a good research involves several consultations, movements, material acquisitions and human engagements. These are only possible through adequate funding. However, there are numerous funding options available to support a wide array of activities. These options range from specific projects defined by funding institutions to grants that assist academics in presenting their papers at conferences.
Additionally, there are fellowships aimed at cultivating and upgrading the skills of early career researchers, as well as grants to facilitate the completion of specific projects. In the following sections, we will explore the different types of funding opportunities in detail:
Grants for Early Career Researchers
A multitude of opportunities exists for researchers who are at the initial stages of their academic careers. The Research Councils, in particular, have a stated objective of bolstering research capacity in UK universities by providing support for early career researchers to progress further on the academic and research ladder.
Typically, early career researchers (ECRs) are individuals who have recently obtained or are about to obtain a PhD and/or are under the age of 35. However, many schemes also welcome applicants without a PhD but with equivalent experience. Furthermore, individuals who have taken a career break for various reasons can also apply.
Fellowship Programs
Many Research Councils and major charities offer fellowship programs for postdoctoral candidates. These programs provide a fixed period of salaried support, ranging from 1 to 5 years, during which academics can dedicate their time to research activities and skill development. Usually, these programs target academics who are in the early stages of their postdoctoral careers and have demonstrated clear potential as researchers. The objective is to foster the growth and enhancement of this potential.
There are also several senior fellowships available for individuals who have an established track record in research. These fellowships enable them to sustain the quality of their research and further develop their skills.
Fellowships typically focus on a program of work rather than a specific project. The application should outline this program, which may include advanced research training and enhancing the academic’s publication record. Most fellowships allow the holder to engage in limited teaching and supervision, especially those designed for early career academics.
Normally, the applicant is responsible for selecting the institution where they wish to hold the fellowship. However, the chosen institution must agree to the terms of the fellowship and provide necessary support. If the fellowship is aimed at those already in a permanent academic position, it is usually expected that the fellowship will be held at the same institution.
Early career fellowships often require the fellow to have a designated mentor at their institution.
Managed Project Grants
Certain funders offer project grants under themed calls, which can range from broad to narrow. This is particularly common among the UK Research Councils. Other funders provide grants for specific projects that have carefully defined objectives. This is often the case with government departments and some charities that have a distinct purpose for commissioning research.
Responsive Project Grants
A considerable portion of funding provided by the Research Councils and major UK Charities is allocated to research projects in the responsive mode. These grants allow applicants to conceive and develop their own projects. For many academics, this type of grant is the most valuable as it enables them to pursue their own ideas and initiatives.
Grants of various sizes are available, ranging from a few thousand pounds (referred to as Small Grants) to several million. Funding can span a few months to over five years. In essence, funding is generally attainable for research projects of any scale and duration, within reason.
Research Networking
Several funders offer funding to establish research networks or clusters that foster collaboration among universities, countries, and the academic and commercial/industrial sectors. These networks often focus on organizing conferences and seminars as a means of knowledge exchange. They also facilitate the exchange of researchers and promote skill and knowledge development through training networks. The European Commission is particularly active in this domain.
In Africa, research funding sources for can vary widely, and opportunities may be available for various fields of study and research interests. Here are 10 potential funding sources for African researchers:
African Union Research Grants: The African Union offers research grants through programs like the African Union Research Grants for Science and Technology (RGS&T). These grants support research in various scientific and technological fields.
Carnegie Corporation of New York: This foundation provides funding for research and higher education projects in Africa. They support initiatives that aim to strengthen universities and promote academic and research excellence.
African Academy of Sciences (AAS): AAS offers several grant programs, including the Grand Challenges Africa, which funds innovative research addressing health and development challenges in Africa.
African Development Bank (AfDB): AfDB offers research grants and funding opportunities for projects related to economic and social development in Africa. They have various thematic areas, including agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.
TWAS-ROSSA: The Third World Academy of Sciences for the Advancement of Science in the South (TWAS) Regional Office for Sub-Saharan Africa (ROSSA) provides research grants and support for scientists and researchers in Africa.
The Wellcome Trust: This UK-based foundation supports health-related research globally, including in Africa. They offer funding opportunities for individuals and institutions working on health and biomedical research.
African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD): AWARD offers fellowships, grants, and capacity-building opportunities for female agricultural researchers in Africa. Their focus is on enhancing the contribution of women to agricultural research and development.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation: This foundation funds research and projects in various areas, including global health, agriculture, and education. They have supported numerous initiatives in Africa to address critical issues.
Ford Foundation: The Ford Foundation provides funding for research and projects that promote social justice, economic empowerment, and equitable development in Africa.
National and Regional Research Councils: Many African countries have their own national research councils or agencies that provide funding for local research projects. Additionally, regional organizations, like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), may offer research grants.
Remember that eligibility criteria and application processes can vary between these funding sources.
It’s essential to thoroughly research and align your research proposal with the specific focus areas and requirements of the funding organization. Additionally, staying updated on the latest funding opportunities and deadlines is crucial to maximize your chances of securing research funding for your work in Africa.