Policy Associate scheme
The Royal Society Policy Associate scheme offers research fellows hands-on secondments in science policy environments to experience how research informs government decision-making.
Funder: Royal Society
Due Dates: July 9, 2026 (Full application deadline, 3pm BST)
Funding Amounts: Salary covered for up to 3 months; up to £3,000 in travel/subsistence costs; fellowship extension for duration of secondment.
Summary: Secondment scheme for Royal Society Research Fellows to gain hands-on experience in science policy environments and understand how research informs government decision-making.
Key Information: Open to University Research Fellows, Dorothy Hodgkin Fellows, and Career Development Fellows with 18+ months remaining on fellowship as of July 2026.
Description
The Royal Society's Policy Associate scheme offers Royal Society-funded University Research Fellows, Dorothy Hodgkin Fellows, and Career Development Fellows the opportunity to undertake a secondment within a science policy environment, such as a central government department, devolved administration, or other relevant public body. During the secondment, participants work closely with their host organisation on live policy issues, contributing to policy development, supporting evidence reviews, and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders. The scheme aims to provide an immersive experience in how research and evidence inform government decision-making, while allowing associates to build networks and develop new perspectives on research impact.
