Launching the Open Research Fellowship Programme

Professor Colette Fagan (Vice-President for Research) and Professor Christopher Pressler (John Rylands University Librarian & Director of the University of Manchester Library)

As part of our continuing commitment to open, reproducible and responsible research we are delighted to announce that the Office for Open Research is launching a new Open Research Fellowship Programme. This unique opportunity will enable academic, professional, and technical services colleagues to directly contribute to the increased uptake of open and reproducible research practices across our University.

What is the Open Research Fellowship Programme?

This initiative, made possible through funding from Research England, is a two-year programme creating two cohorts of up to five fellows each. This unique opportunity allows colleagues to advance their careers and contribute meaningfully to the open research community. We are fully committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences and welcome applications from across the entire University. Modelled on the well-established ITL Fellowship Programme, Open Research Fellowships provide financial support by covering salary costs for one day a week for up to 12 months, allowing fellows to concentrate on their open research projects. Additionally, fellows will have access to funding for project-related expenses.

What Are the Objectives and Benefits of the Programme?

The Fellowship Programme aims to develop a new generation of open research leaders at the University, integrating research expertise with our Open Research Programme. Our fellows will form a network of academic and research professionals, advocating for open research within their respective departments, and fostering a community of practice. This initiative provides access to resources and support from the Office for Open Research and will help you to connect with the open research communities across the university supported by Professor Andrew Stewart, the University's academic lead for open and reproducible research. Our fellows will contribute to the development of high-quality training, address priority areas of open research practice, and provide expert input to the developing Open Research Programme.

How Does the Application Process Work?

The project-based application process will ensure that fellows are selected based on the merit and potential impact of their proposed open research projects. During this process, candidates are expected to outline the planned activities and focus of their work over the year. Head of School, or equivalent, approval is required for all applications, ensuring the Fellowship integrates seamlessly with the candidates' existing academic and research commitments.

Full details are available from the Office for Open Research website. Applications for the fellowship are now open and will close on Friday, 5th April 2024. The first cohort of Fellows began their projects in September 2023, and the following cohort will begin in September 2024.

Ultimately, the programme aims to raise awareness about open research and promote its adoption across all parts of the University. This is another step towards our commitment to openness in research, and we look forward to nurturing two cohorts of open research leaders and champions at the University.