Bristol 'Next Generation' Visiting Researcher Programme
n the 2019-20 academic year we are launching a new Bristol ‘Next Generation’ Visiting Researcher Programme, replacing the former Benjamin Meaker ‘fast track’ scheme and in complement to the Bristol Benjamin Meaker Distinguished Visiting Professorships (BBMDVPs). This scheme 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, and subsistence while resident in, Bristol (up to £200/week). 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 UoB will encourage long-lasting international collaborations, with research outputs being one key indicator of success. We also hope that visitors will be open to working with UoB’s existing global network partnerships and to participating in 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.
To help support the development if this global community we have also launched a new Follow-on Fund for Visiting Professors and Researchers within 18 months of the end of their visit. More information is available via this link.
How to apply
The Bristol Next Generation Visiting Researcher programme support visits to the University of Bristol for up to six weeks for both distinguished professors and also future research leaders who have demonstrated research excellence and innovation in their field. The scheme offers funds for travel and subsistence (up to £200 per week) as well as accommodation for the duration of the visit.
Next deadline: 2 March 2020
2020 planned deadlines: March 2020; June 2020; September 2020
Please ensure you familiarise yourself with the full requirements and guidance outlined in the 'Guidance for applicants' section of the BBMDVP call guidance document before completing the application form.
- Next Generation Call Guidance (PDF, 145kB)
- Next Generation 2020 application form (Office document, 197kB)
If you have any questions regarding the application process or any other aspect of this scheme please get in touch with International Research Partnerships Officer Sam Barlow via irp-admin@bristol.ac.uk.
