FURS Research Grants

FURS Research Grants within the field of urban and regional studies

FURS is concerned to promote urban and regional research and within this broad field it is particularly keen to encourage an understanding of the interconnection between social, economic and political processes and of the broader causes and effects of these processes. This means for example that research which examines policies critically and focuses on their unintended as well as intended consequences is more likely to be supported than research on managerially defined questions.

Conversely research which takes a 'technical' approach to urban and regional questions and does not place them within wider contexts of understanding is unlikely to be given priority. Although these concerns are likely to lead to social scientists such as sociologists, political scientists, geographers, economists and town planners predominating among applicants, others such as lawyers, cultural theorists, anthropologists and historians should not be discouraged from applying.

Applications are invited for a number of research grants. These may be held in any University. The Trustees are anxious to encourage newly graduated researchers or junior colleagues of established researchers who have difficulty in getting funds to support research. Applications must be received by 31 January each year. Late applications will not be considered under any circumstances and no correspondence will be entered into. Each application will be acknowledged and successful applicants will be informed by the end of April.

Funding is only offered to those students who are within the field of urban and regional studies.

Eligibility: From 2005, only applicants whose nationality falls into the countries listed in Groups B and C of the World Bank classification will be eligible to apply. For details see [External Link].

The normal value of FURS research grants is up to £2,000. But in addition to research grants of £2,000 value, a limited number of higher value research grants may be awarded where this is justified by the nature of the work to be carried out and the strength of the application. The research grants can be used to help pay for research, which is:

1. carried out as part of a higher degree, or
2. not part of a higher degree.

You will be expected to supply:

1. A brief account of your training and qualifications on the application form provided.
2. An outline of your proposed research. This should explain the significance of the topic, and refer to the research questions to be investigated, relevant theoretical debates or hypotheses, and the methods of research to be used (including any problems of data access).
3. A precise account of how the grant is to be spent and over what period. Please indicate whether alternative sources of funds are available.
4. A statement from a senior scholar who is familiar with your work and who can confirm that you are able to carry out the work proposed. The Trustees would expect an academic tutor, Head of Department or research team, or the equivalent to write such a letter.
5. The name of a person who can be contacted to report on the progress of your research.

Application Form

If you have any queries, please contact:

Sally Pepperall
Foundation for Urban and Regional Studies Limited
School of Geography and the Environment
Oxford University Centre for the Environment
Dyson Perrins Building
South Parks Rd
Oxford OX1 3QY
Tel: (+44) 1865 285066
Fax (+44) 1865 275885

E-mail: Furs Research Grants