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ESRC Studentship Advice

Does anyone have any experience applying for ESRC (Economic & Social Research Council) studentships? If so, are there any tips you can give or anything I should be putting in my application to really appeal to their decision making panel?

Reply 1

returnmigrant

Look at the ESRC website and read up on their current research projects/funding calls (http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding/funding-opportunities/, http://www.esrc.ac.uk/research/research-topics/, etc etc ). This will give you clues to the current 'big things' and if you can drag any of this into your proposal it increases possible 'interest'.

However, what any funders will be interested in the practical questions of 'is this project do-able', 'is it worthwhile - does it contribute new knowledge', 'is this student likely to complete on time'. A clearly worked out research proposal that is easy to read, engaging and relevant to current academic interests is what you should be striving for.

Reply 2

Josb

Original post by alexgilder

The best is to have a 1st and a masters with distinction, relevant work experience, great and sexy research proposal, and lauding references from famous academics.

Reply 3

1775339

Original post by Josb

The best is to have a 1st and a masters with distinction, relevant work experience, great and sexy research proposal, and lauding references from famous academics.

Sexy proposal. I like that. I'm lucky that I have multiple lecturers at the university I hold an offer for helping with drafting. The masters is ongoing so I have good marks to show my progress but hopefully I won't be too disadvantaged by not finishing until July.