Research in Practice

Research in Practice

What is Research in Practice?

Research in Practice comprises two new elements that are built into the PhD funding model.

  • All ESRC funded students whose funding began from October 2024 are expected to undertake a placement as part of their studentship. The placement can be undertaken in a non-academic or academic setting.
  • All students will have access to new Research in Practice wrap-around training to thrive in a placement with subsequent benefits for their development. The training will enable students to apply their research skills in new environments, communicate with impact, and proactively engage in their own personal development and career direction.

SGSSS’ vision for Research in Practice is to equip Scottish Social Science students to be the next generation of research leaders. SGSSS want to support students to be confident collaborating across sectors and disciplinary boundaries. SGSSS have committed to developing students’ understanding of the meaningful contribution that they can make to society, the economy, and the research community through their knowledge and skills and the difference that their PhD will have on their own professional growth.

Useful links

Research in Practice Placement Options

SGSSS Academic Placements

  • Hosted by a research centre, research team or professional services team.
  • Placement outside of the student’s current supervisor and/or research team home department.
  • Set up by SGSSS and open to ESRC funded students only.
  • Click here for Academic Placement Opportunities,                                                    

SGSSS Internship Scheme

  • Hosted by partners in the public, private or third sector.
  • Part of SGSSS’ established internship scheme with two calls a year in February and July.
  • Open to all Social Science PhD students in Scotland.
  • Click here for more information about the SGSSS Internship Scheme.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

SGSSS Student-led Placements

  • Student identifies host and sets up placement.
  • Host can be academic – outside of home department and not with current supervisor,
  • Or non-academic.
  • SGSSS supports the student and host to create a robust proposal, supports set up and admin of stipend.
  • SGSSS can support students in approaching hosts, if required.

External placement opportunity

  • Student secures external placement opportunity e.g., UKRI Policy Internship Scheme, IAA institution specific placements, or other relevant opportunities.
  • The placement must meet the ESRC placement criteria and cannot be paid in addition to the stipend payment.
  • Student contacts SGSSS for approval that the placement meets funding requirements before the placement begins.