Grants and Programmes internship scheme 2026/27

We are welcoming applications for our Grants and Programme internships, with placements from January 2027. The scheme is open to all PhD students (based in a UK university or institute) who will be funded via their PhD programme for the duration of the three month placement, which must be an integral part of their programme.

These internships are designed to give future researchers and leaders a deeper understanding of the UK and international grant review processes and career development programmes. Interns are embedded within the Academy's Research Talent Policy and Programme department and will provide early career researchers' perspectives for developing new schemes.

Responsibilities

The intern will be involved in a wide variety of activities that support the management of research funding and career development programmes at the Academy. Key tasks include:

• Supporting the portfolio of grant schemes, including assessing applicant eligibility, identifying peer reviewers, attending panel meetings and preparing feedback for applicants.
• Supporting the delivery of career development programmes, including the flagship mentoring scheme.
• Assisting in the organisation and delivery of workshops, conferences and other events - e.g. arranging venues, preparing materials and coordinating on day activities.
• Contributing to the engagement strategy of the Research Talent Policy and Programme, including work on awardee and alumni programmes.
• Liaising with the Academy's Fellowship, external stakeholders, funders and professional bodies.

Eligibility

The scheme is open to all PhD students based in a university or institute. Students must be funded via their PhD programme for the duration of the internship, which must be an integral part of their programme. Internships are available through the Professional Internships for PhD Students scheme and similar programmes.

Selection criteria Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Team player
• Excellent IT skills
• Good literacy and numeracy skills

Competencies

• Engages effectively with others, understanding collaborative working benefits
• Plans own work efficiently and prioritises tasks to meet deadlines
• Shows awareness of the Academy's vision and strategic priorities
• Adapts communication style to differing audiences
• Networks effectively with stakeholders internally and externally
• Respects diverse values, views and experiences of others

Location

The Academy is based in central London and operates a hybrid working policy. Interns are encouraged to attend the office for key events and meetings if possible. For interns based outside London, arrangements will be discussed on a case by case basis.

Timing of the internship

Placements are offered in three month blocks for 2027: January to March, April to June, July to September and October to December. Applicants should indicate their preferred timing in the application form.