Published April 20, 2026 | Version v1
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A Framework for Positive Action in Research Funding and Careers

Authors/Creators

  • 1. ROR icon University of Nottingham
  • 2. ROR icon University of Edinburgh

Contributors

  • 1. ROR icon Royal Academy of Engineering
  • 2. ROR icon University College London
  • 3. ROR icon Anglia Ruskin University
  • 4. ROR icon University of Oxford
  • 5. ROR icon University of Chester
  • 6. ROR icon University of Leeds
  • 7. ROR icon De Montfort University
  • 8. ROR icon Lancaster University
  • 9. ROR icon Wellcome Trust
  • 10. ROR icon King's College London
  • 11. ROR icon University of Cambridge
  • 12. ROR icon University of Warwick

Description

Building on the University of Oxford’s work on Equity in Research Funding, this framework and guidance has been produced by a cross-sector working group which forms part of the Equity in Research Funding Forum. The Forum brings together research organisations and funders to focus on equity in the context of research funding, specifically seeking opportunities to work in collaboration to make a positive difference.

For the purposes of this resource, ‘research funding’ includes funding awarded to individuals or teams undertaking research. This includes funding for doctoral studentships, Fellowships and any other funding which supports the delivery of research,
including funding awarded internally within research organisations. This framework also explores how underrepresentation in associated career development can be addressed through positive action, as equity in research is interdependent with having a more diverse researcher population generally.

This framework is for those responsible for the approval, design, implementation and evaluation of research funding schemes and associated initiatives within research funders and research organisations.

The aims of the Positive Action in Research Funding Framework are:

1. To provide a supportive resource focusing on potential positive action interventions related to research funding, and research careers, showcasing case studies which demonstrate positive action in practice.

2. To empower practitioners across the research ecosystem to advocate for positive action within research funding, and design and implement effective interventions.

Files

Framework For Positive Action in Research Funding and Research Careers.pdf

Files (10.7 MB)

Additional details

Related works

Documents
Other: 10.5281/zenodo.17618409 (DOI)

References

  • Manfredi, S. (2017). Increasing gender diversity in senior roles in HE: Who is afraid of positive action? Administrative Sciences, 7(2), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.3390/ admsci7020019
  • Noon, M. (2011). The shackled runner: time to rethink positive discrimination? Work, Employment and Society, 24(4), 728-739. https:// doi.org/10.1177/0950017010380648