UKRI policy internships 2026
UKRI offers three-month policy internships for doctoral students to gain hands-on experience applying research in UK government and policy organisations.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: September 8, 2026
Funding Amounts: 3-month internships; stipend and fees continue; up to £3,594 for travel/accommodation; award extensions/arrangements vary by research council.
Summary: Three-month internships for UKRI-funded doctoral students to gain policy experience at leading UK policy organisations.
Key Information: Only open to current UKRI-funded doctoral students; strict eligibility and security checks apply.
Description
This scheme enables UKRI-funded doctoral students to undertake a three-month internship at one of 16 high-impact policy organisations across the UK, including government departments, parliamentary offices, devolved administrations, and public agencies. The programme is designed to embed researchers within policy environments, allowing them to develop key skills in policy engagement, evidence translation, and communication. Interns will participate directly in policy development, briefing creation, policy inquiries, or event organisation, gaining first-hand insight into how research informs public policy. The internships can be undertaken in-person, remotely, or in a hybrid format, depending on the host organisation's arrangements.
