FAQs

How do I apply?

To apply just complete the online application form. We will endeavour to create a placement that matches the needs of both you and the school.

Am I eligible to take part?

Researchers in Residence is open to all PhD and post doctoral researchers funded directly or indirectly by one of the seven UK Research Councils or the Wellcome Trust.

I have a disability, can I still be a Researcher in Residence?

Researchers in Residence is open to all PhD and post doctoral researchers irrespective of disability. To make sure your placement works our Regional Coordinators will work with you to find a school that suits your needs.

Can I apply to work with a specific school?

Yes.  You may have a preference to undertake your placement in a specialist school, choose to return to your former school, or choose a school close to your University. Just let us know on your application form.

If you don’t have a school in mind, our Regional Coordinators will work with you to make sure your placement fits with your preference.

Do I get paid as part of Researchers in Residence?

Researchers in Residence contributes to your travel and subsistence costs up to a maximum amount . This is normally £70 (to include both training and placement travel and subsistence), but we may be able to pay more for some placements. This will be decided on a case-by-case basis so please discuss with your regional co-ordinator if you require more than £70. We may also be able to give a higher travel and subsistence allowance to Researchers in Northern Ireland.

How much planning and preparation does a placement involve?

This depends on the nature of your project, but the more you put in, the more you and the young people you work with will get out it. You’ll have a better feel for what is required once you have spoken with the teacher where you are placed.

To help you, Researchers in Residence will be able to provide support to assist you in developing your project.

How long is the placement?

Placements take place over a single academic year. How you use your time will vary from an intense week in school to a number of visits such as 8 half day or 4 full day visits. The key is to suit the needs of both yourself and the school.

I have no experience of working in schools. Can I still take part?

Yes. Your contribution will help to make school science more relevant and exciting for young people.

What support is available to me?

Researchers in Residence provides the necessary training, information and support material to make your placement a success, including professional science communication training.

How much involvement will be provided by teachers?

This depends on the nature of the project you choose. You’ll have a better feel for what is required once you have spoken with the teacher where you are placed, it may be that you work alongside the teacher in lessons or conduct a standalone project with a small group of students. However, the more you put into the placement the more you and the young people you work with will get out of it.

During the development of your project and placement we at Researchers in Residence will provide support to assist you in developing your project. If you have any queries or concerns please call us 0845 365 7470.

When do placements start?

Placements can be arranged to start at any time during the academic year.

How long does the application process take?

Typically you will be able to start your placement three months after your initial application. We understand that fieldwork and other pressures can mean you can’t start at certain times of the year. We will work around this with you to find a placement that suits you.

What age range of children will I be working with?

Researchers in Residence is aimed at young people aged between 11 and 19.

Who’s responsibility is it to arrange a placement?

Researchers in Residence will match you with a suitable school. Once the placement is arranged it will be up to you to contact the classroom teacher and discuss how to undertake your placement.  Researchers in Residence will provide support to help you.

Get Involved

Apply now or for more information call us on 0845 365 7470.