The Open Innovation Policy Fellowship is now accepting applications for 2023/2024. The fellowship helps officials answer a specific policy research question
The Open Innovation Team (OIT) has opened applications for the second cohort of its Open Innovation Policy Fellowship. The fellowship provides Civil Servants (SEO-G6 level) with the opportunity to be partnered with an academic mentor from Brunel University London, the University of Essex, Lancaster University, the University of Surrey or the University of York to help officials answer a specific research question related to their policy area.
This round follows last year’s successful pilot. In 2022/23, three Civil Servants from the Cabinet Office, the Department for Business and Trade and the UK Health Security Agency were partnered with academic mentors from the University of Essex, where they developed research papers on specific government policy. More information about last year’s fellows can be found here.
Benefits of becoming a fellow include:
opportunities to learn new skills
engagement with academics to build subject knowledge
access to data and support with analysis and interpretation
networking with academics and other officials
The second round of applications for the fellowship will match officials with an academic working on a policy relevant to the following areas of expertise.
Education policy:
education and skills
education and ethnic and racial inequalities
education and SEND
Health and social care policy:
ageing and loneliness
health and adult social care
adolescent mental health
well-being and work
Artificial intelligence policy:
artificial intelligence
AI governance
responsible AI
AI for society
inclusive AI
Intelligence, elections and cyber policy:
intelligence and security
electoral modernisation and integrity
cyber-security and protection science
Other policy areas:
immigration and migration
creative industries
housing
social security
The first round of applications will close on 8 December 2023, but applicants can explore the possibility of starting earlier if there are tight deadlines for outputs that officials want to deliver. This will depend on the availability of relevant academic mentors.
To apply:
Review the extended documentation Open Innovation Team Policy Fellowship Extended Terms (PDF, 64.4 KB, 3 pages)
Complete the application form
You should discuss the fellowship with your line manager before applying, to ensure that you can dedicate enough time to the programme.