Entrepreneur in Residence
The Royal Society EiR scheme funds industrial scientists to spend one day a week at UK universities, fostering research translation, innovation, and academic-industry collaboration in the natural sciences.
Funder: Royal Society
Due Dates: August 19, 2026: Full application & supporting statements due (15:00 UK time)
Funding Amounts: Up to £50,000 per award, typically £25,000/year for 2 years (salary + project costs); ~7 awards per round
Summary: Enables experienced industrial scientists and entrepreneurs to spend one day per week at a UK university to foster research translation, innovation, and academic-industry engagement.
Key Information: Applications must be submitted via Flexi-Grant and require host/employer statements and two referees.
Description
The Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) scheme is designed to embed experienced industrial scientists and entrepreneurs within UK universities for one day per week over two years. The aim is to increase universities’ exposure to cutting-edge industrial research, support innovation and translation of research, foster entrepreneurial culture, and build stronger links between academia and industry. EiRs develop bespoke projects tailored to their host institution, offering mentoring, curriculum development, commercialization advice, and networking support. The scheme is highly flexible, with activities ranging from supporting spinouts to delivering entrepreneurship training and building innovation networks.
