Applications are now welcome for IAS Research Development Projects (RDPs) for the 2026/27 academic year. Led by Durham academics, the scheme supports the early-stage development of ambitious interdisciplinary research initiatives. Further details on eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines are available online.
The IAS is a home for growing big ideas. We support a broad and inclusive interdisciplinary community from across the full spectrum of Durham academics, where different perspectives are brought together to develop creative approaches to interesting and important problems.
Alongside its annual Major Projects, the IAS also funds several Research Development Projects (RDPs) designed to support the early-stage development of ambitious interdisciplinary research. These projects are intended to serve as a foundation for future IAS Major Projects and to position teams for external funding opportunities.
Funding of up to £1500 is available for RDPs in 2026/27, and it can be used to support, for example, research conversations, workshops, and network building.
Funds can be used to support costs to fund short visits of external visitors to Durham (travel and accommodation); fund the hosting of conferences and workshops (travel and accommodation for key participants); or to fund short visits for Durham research staff to visit other key researchers.
The lead applicant must be an employed member of Durham University staff. The full application process is detailed here. Application is an easy online process.
Applications must be made by midday Thursday 11 June 2026, and the outcome will be communicated by w/e 26 May 2026.
The IAS staff are happy to discuss prospective applications in advance of the deadline, including the Director, Professor Alex Easton (alexander.easton@durham.ac.uk), or any of the IAS Co-Directors: Professor Gretchen Larsen (DBS, gretchen.larsen@durham.ac.uk); Professor Nayanika Mookherjee (SS, nayanika.mookherjee@durham.ac.uk), Dr Margarita Staykova (SCI, margarita.staykova@durham.ac.uk); and Professor Patrick Zuk (A&H patrick.zuk@durham.ac.uk).
Enquiries can also be made to the IAS Manager, Linda Crowe (ias.manager@durham.ac.uk).
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