New fellowship programme launched
Applications are now open for an exciting new fellowship programme designed to drive innovation across the University.
Funded through a £1 million donation from Michael Beverley, a Leeds alumnus and Yorkshire business leader, this pioneering initiative was inspired by the opportunity to develop the next generation of academic entrepreneurs and, in so doing, enhance the future of the University and help strengthen the regional economy.
Targeted at early and mid-career researchers at Leeds, the Michael Beverley Innovation Fellowship Programme will provide a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of commercialisation, and business engagement, assisting them in their ability to create economic and societal value from their research.
Professor Nick Plant, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation, said: “This unique fellowship programme will drive innovation engagement, supporting fellows to deliver impactful research.
“Michael Beverley Innovation Fellows will create a community of researchers that are outward facing and will drive entrepreneurial culture across the University. Not only will it help their research careers, but it will also build the reputations of the University, Leeds and the city region as destinations where entrepreneurs can thrive.”
Each Fellow will receive between £5,000 and £10,000 in funding to develop a concept, such as creating a new venture, service, applied research or external partnership. This will help raise their profile in the academic arena and put them on the trajectory for future research and innovation leadership roles within the University.
Connections that matter
Fellows will have the opportunity to share ideas with like-minded academics from other disciplines, who may be at a similar stage of their research journey or have experience they can draw upon.
The programme will also create the opportunity to:
- build long-lasting, cross-disciplinary relationships with academic colleagues
- expand external networks by engaging with industry experts; and
- meet colleagues from across the University, who will be able to offer further support and guidance.
Knowledge enhancement
Fellows will be shown how to pitch their research to business experts, taking an idea from concept to reality.
They will also be guided in how to gain research grants and develop Research Excellence Framework (REF) impact case studies.
Access to experts
Fellows will have access to an inspiring network of trusted business experts, senior academics and Leeds alumni through our Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)-based mentoring programme.
They will hear from inspirational high-profile speakers from business and the wider University community, who can support their research journey.
Ongoing support
During the programme, Fellows will attend a bi-monthly networking group providing peer learning and support. They will also have three dedicated mentors for 12 months, covering the duration of the programme and the early stages of implementing their agreed research plan.
Further support will include open-access online resources and complimentary Nexus Community Membership, including access to member events and use of the innovation hub’s business lounge.
How to apply
Visit the programme’s webpage for further information and details of how to apply. Applications close at midnight on Wednesday 18 November and the programme begins in January 2021.
Please contact Programme Co-ordinator, Eva Murphy, with any questions.