The ADR UK Research Fellowships 2025 (RF2025) provide an opportunity for researchers to use flagship datasets from ADR England to deliver impactful projects with clear policy relevance. These fellowships are funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and are designed to strengthen evidence-based policymaking in the UK.
Deadline
Closing date for applications: 26 February 2026, 4:00pm (UK time)
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship is divided into two phases, with specific time commitments:
- Initial stage (first 3 months):
- Maximum of 0.4 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) commitment
- Focus on project setup, scoping, and initial engagement
- Core research phase (remaining 15 months):
- Minimum of 0.6 FTE commitment
- Dedicated to conducting research, analysis, and dissemination
Who Can Apply
Applicants must demonstrate strong research expertise and the ability to deliver policy-relevant outputs.
- Eligible applicants:
- Researchers based in UK institutions
- Those with experience in social science, public policy, or related disciplines
- Individuals capable of working with large administrative datasets
- Not eligible:
- Applicants without institutional affiliation
- Projects lacking clear policy impact potential
What ADR UK Is Looking For
The fellowship emphasizes projects that:
- Use ADR England flagship datasets effectively
- Demonstrate policy impact potential
- Contribute to public understanding and evidence-based policymaking
- Engage with stakeholders, policymakers, and communities
- Produce outputs that are accessible and usable beyond academia
Funding Details
Each fellowship can receive up to £200,000 for the entire duration.
- Costs covered:
- Research staff time
- Data access and management
- Engagement activities with policymakers and stakeholders
- Dissemination and communication outputs
- Budget considerations:
- Must align with ESRC funding guidelines
- Should reflect the staged time commitments (initial vs. core phase)
Application Process
Applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining their project.
- Steps to apply:
- Review ADR UK guidance documents
- Develop a clear research plan using ADR England datasets
- Demonstrate policy relevance and impact pathways
- Provide detailed costings within the £200,000 limit
- Submit application before the closing date
Assessment Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Quality of research proposal
- Policy relevance and potential impact
- Feasibility of project design and timeline
- Applicant’s expertise and institutional support
- Value for money within the funding limit
Additional Resources
Applicants are encouraged to consult:
- ESRC Research Funding Guide
- ADR UK Good Research Resource Hub
- UKRI Policies and Standards
These resources provide guidance on preparing strong applications and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.
Contact and Support
For queries or support:
- Visit the UKRI website for detailed guidance
- Attend the scheduled webinars for clarification on datasets and research agendas
- Subscribe to UKRI emails for updates on funding opportunities, news, and events
Summary for Applicants
The ADR UK Research Fellowships 2025 (RF2025) represent a significant opportunity for researchers to:
- Access and analyze ADR England flagship datasets
- Deliver research with direct policy relevance
- Secure funding up to £200,000 for 18 months
- Contribute to evidence-based policymaking in the UK
With a clear timeline, structured fellowship phases, and strong emphasis on policy impact, this program is ideal for researchers aiming to bridge the gap between data and decision-making. Apply now.
