Internal Call: Isaac Newton Trust / University of Cambridge Early Career Support Scheme for the Schools of Technology and the Physical Sciences

20/04/2023

17/05/2023

The aim of the funding: The scheme aims to support recently appointed Assistant and Associate Professors with start-up funds to kick-start their research careers and attract further external funding. In line with the main goal of the scheme, priority for funding will be given to those canddiates who do not already have substantial existing funding. Key criteria for funding include the quality of the proposed research and its potential to lead to an application to an external funder. Duration: Projects can last up to 12 months, and successful applicants will have 12 months from the award date to start their projects. All projects must end within two years from the award date. Funding available: Proposals can cost up to £55,000 – where 50% (up to £27,500) will be covered by the Isaac Newton Trust, and the remaining 50% (up to £27,500) must be provided by the hosting Department. The departmental contribution must come from direct departmental funds, not another research grant or re-purposed start-up funds. Only directly incurred and directly allocated costs are allowed as eligible expenditure and support can be sought to fund PDRA support, equipment, travel, and ancillary consumables. PI time or student fees are not eligible.

Physical Sciences

Applicants must be Assistant and Associate Professors (established or unestablished) who have been appointed in the last three years between 01 April 2020 and 30 June 2023. Applicants must be based at Cambridge at the start of the award – the scheme does not cover projects for PIs based outside the University of Cambridge. Applicants commencing their post at the University after 30 June 2023 are eligible to apply only if their offer letter was dated within the above-mentioned window and if they will be based at Cambridge by 30 June 2024. Normally, applications for a second INT/UCAM award will not be supported.