Royal Society International Exchanges funds UK scientists to start new natural science collaborations with overseas partners via visits and exchanges, supporting preliminary research and long-term partnerships.
Funder: Royal Society
Due Dates: March 18, 2026 (Global Round 1) | June 4, 2026 (Global Round 2 & Cost Share Round 2) | September 24, 2026 (Global Round 3 & Cost Share Round 3)
Funding Amounts: Up to £12,000 for 2 years (Global or Cost Share rounds); additional matching funds for Cost Share rounds; shorter durations available with lower maximums.
Summary: Supports UK-based researchers to initiate new international research collaborations via funded visits and exchanges with overseas partners.
Key Information: Scheme is for new collaborations only; not for existing/recent partnerships or former colleagues/PhD supervisors.
The International Exchanges scheme from the Royal Society provides funding to UK-based scientists to establish new research collaborations with leading scientists overseas. Funding supports either short, one-off visits or bilateral exchanges to build partnerships, gather preliminary data, and foster long-term collaboration in the natural sciences. The scheme is available through multiple annual calls, including Global rounds (open to all non-UK countries/territories) and Cost Share rounds (co-funded with partners in Italy, Japan, China, and Taiwan). The scheme prioritizes equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring fair access for applicants from all backgrounds.