Metascience Research Grants Round 2

This funding opportunity aims to accelerate the generation of evidence on how we can improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and inclusivity of the research and development (R&D) ecosystem. The programme supports innovative and ambitious metascience research projects that use scientific methods to deepen understanding of how different incentives, institutional structures, and funding practices within the R&D system influence scientific research outputs and career outcomes. This round focuses on three key themes: the Science of AI for Science (examining how AI adoption is changing the research landscape), effective design and leadership of research organisations, and scientometric approaches to understanding research excellence, efficiency, and equity. The funding opportunity supports empirical and/or theoretical research focused on generating actionable insights for decision makers, including those in government, funding bodies, and research organisations. Collaborative research with UK and international organisations is strongly encouraged, and the programme welcomes applications from diverse groups of researchers at any career stage.