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Apply for funding from Matariki (MNU) Research Seed Fund 2024/2025


The Matariki Network of Universities (MNU) is launching a second call for research seed funding to develop a stronger relationship in globally relevant fields of research between its partners. Through a competitive process, MNU will jointly advertise, select and fund multi-lateral collaborative research projects between at least two (2) MNU institutions. Successful research projects are expected to ultimately result in outcomes such as third-party funding applications, larger-scale collaborations, significant joint publications etc.

Proposals covering any thematic area will be considered, but applications in areas related to the United Nations’ SDGs are particularly welcome. Projects must also demonstrate alignment to MNU’s five guiding principles and values.

Please note that the MNU Research Seed Fund particularly welcomes applications from Early Career Researchers (ECRs) (up to 6 years from PhD, excluding periods of leave or other career breaks) though does not exclude submissions from other groups.

Summary of features:

  • Proposals will be invited for up to £25,000 for activity duration of 12-24 months, with each project researcher being funded by their respective institution;
  • Projects must start no later than 1 May 2025;
  • Proposals must include researchers from at least two (2) MNU institutions. Proposals including more than two partners are strongly encouraged;
  • Lead applicants must be eligible to serve in the role of PI at their own institution;
  • Applicants must have proven expertise in the project proposal being submitted;
  • Non-Matariki external collaborators may be involved in the proposal, at their own expense.

Application timeline:

The call opens on Wednesday 2nd October and completed applications should be submitted by Friday 6th December, 12pm GMT through the online application form using the link below.

  • Guidelines on the application can be found here
  • The application questions can be accessed here
  • The application can be accessed here

Application procedure:

All projects should be costed and approved by your departments via Worktribe. To do this, please complete the application form, and forward the completed form plus details of the costs you wish to request to ris.funding@durham.ac.uk. All Worktribe approvals should be completed before the deadline.

Contacts:

If you have any questions please contact Durham's MNU Coordinator via international.partnerships@durham.ac.uk.