To deepen engagement and bring in new skill sets from across the University of Edinburgh, the Jameel Observatory for Food Security Early Action seeks proposals from University of Edinburgh staff to support ot undertake action research on its key themes.

The Jameel Observatory was established in 2021 and has successfully established a vibrant stakeholder network in East Africa. As the Observatory matures there are increased opportunities for action research activities to support its overall vision that ‘vulnerable pastoral and agro-pastoral communities in East Africa are more prepared for and resilient to the effects of evolving environmental shocks and stresses on their food security and nutrition.’

We seek proposals from University of Edinburgh staff that contribute to at least one of the ‘Challenge Questions’ that frame our research, learning and innovation agenda: Data for effective early action; Coordinating for effective early action; Financing for effective early action;  Trust in data and evidence for early action; and Effective early action at Community level.

We expect to allocate up to £75,000 for three separate projects.

Key dates

  • Applications are now closed
  • Funding decisions should be made by 16/06/2023.
  • Projects should be complete by 31/01/2024. 

Notes to applicants

Before submitting, we urge applicants to familiarise themselves with the Observatory’s research, learning and innovation agenda. The challenge questions in particular frame the areas where we want to achieve impact.

This form asks you to provide:

  • basic information about the person leading this application.
  • a short summary of the project idea, its link to the Observatory’s ‘Challenge Questions that frame its agenda, estimated start and end dates and the amount of funds requested.
  • information on your expected partner organisations and their roles.
  • your project idea and how it contributes to our challenge questions.
  • information on any risks to project delivery and whether the project is likely to need ethical clearance.
  • information on the costs you seek funding for, as well as any additional co-funding you may have.
  • You can also upload a budget summary in spreadsheet form

Additional weight will be given to proposals that have other co-funding. Proposals with clear links to partners in East Africa or links to Jameel Observatory consortium members are particularly welcome.

Cost estimates should be as accurate as possible, with Schools providing any costs associated with allowable project staff time. All costings must have approval from your local Research Support.

  • Directly Incurred costs i.e. staff and non-staff costs which are specific to enable the project to be carried out are eligible
  • Directly Allocated costs and Indirect costs are not eligible e.g. Estates, library, HR, IT, Finance, technicians.
  • If you are working with an organisation that incurs VAT, this must be fully costed.

Evaluation criteria:

  • Project idea – novelty/coherence (40%)
  • Alignment with Jameel Observatory scope (15%)
  • Partnership development – will the studentship help build partnerships especially in East Africa (15%)
  • Value for money including co-funding (10%)
  • Potential for further funding (20%)

Contact us for more information or to partner with us: