Early Career Researcher Development Fund

The Vulnerability & Policing Futures Research Centre runs an annual Early Career Researcher (ECR) Development Fund for research that aligns with the Centre’s programme of work, values and principles.

Person gesturing with their hands while sat at a desk with laptop, notepad and phone on the table

The Fund aims to build research capacity and capability to tackle current and emerging challenges related to vulnerability and policing. It seeks to widen the reach of the Centre’s work, enabling early career researchers to lead co-produced pioneering projects that contribute new findings and insights. It supports research in areas where knowledge gaps are most prominent and where research benefits offer the greatest value.

Research grants of up to £25,000 for 12-month projects are available. The Centre provides support to the successful applicants to maximise the reach and impact of their research.

ECR Development Fund for 2026

The ECR Development Fund for 2026 is now open for applications. Research grants of up to £25,000 are available for 12-month projects commencing February 2026.

This is a vulnerability and policing open call. We welcome applications on any relevant topic (see guidance), and reserve one award to be focused on:

  • Vulnerability in drugs markets (Dr Leah Moyle Commemorative Award)

Proposed projects need to align with the ESRC Vulnerability and Policing Futures Research Centre’s programme of work and values and principles.

The application form and budget template are available on our Early Career Researcher Development Fund Guidance webpage.

Read frequently asked questions about the Fund.

The deadline for applications is Monday 29 September 2025, 4pm BST.

Webinar

Watch a webinar that provides information about the ECR Development Fund for 2026 and the application process.

Previous ECR Development Fund calls

The Centre received a wide range of high-quality applications in its first two calls. Read about the completed and existing funded projects:

ECR Development Fund for 2023

ECR Development Fund for 2024

ECR Development Fund for 2025