In light of recent policy updates from the UKRI, and the continuing impact of the coronavirus pandemic, NINE DTP may need to reduce the amount of funding available to support placements in order to prioritise support for extensions related to the pandemic.

In order to ensure funds are used most effectively, we are asking that all applications for placements be accompanied by a letter clearly stating how the proposed activity is critical to either (i) the completion of the PhD, or (ii) to career development.

The letter should be no more than two-sides in length.

Owing to these exceptional circumstances, NINE is willing to receive applications outside of the two annual calls, and candidates may submit applications throughout the year at present; however, we do ask all applicants to consider whether their application is of significant value before placing an application.

The UK Research and Innovation Policy Internships Scheme provides an exceptional opportunity for UKRI-funded students to work for three months in one of a selected group of highly influential policy organisations

Host institutions include parliamentary and governmental departments, non-governmental bodies, learned socieites and other organisations.

Full details of the scheme, including eligibility requirements and the date of the next call for applications, are available via the UKRI website.

NINE DTP offers a placement scheme, designed to complement the UKRI Internship Scheme. Instead of having a prescribed list of partner institutions, we invite students to identify and establish their own placements, for which the DTP can provide support. Full details of the scheme are available in the NINE DTP Placement Scheme Guide (below).

Applications are accepted biannually, on 1 October and 1 April.

A placement is expected to compliment and contribute to the student’s research, providing a fruitful opportunity for knowledge exchange and personal and professional development.

It should be noted that the number of placements that the DTP can support are limited, and we cannot guarantee support to all applicants. We encourage you to contact the NINE DTP Manager to discuss the placement scheme before you prepare an application.