Research Support Opportunities for Social Enterprises ...

23rd September 2011

The University of Nottingham is currently running a programme which enables Social Enterprises to access the research expertise of its PhD and Research staff.

If you have a specific research project to undertake for your organisation or perhaps in the initial planning stages, we would like to hear from you.

We may also be able to undertake research for a network or group of organisations with a shared interest in a particular theme or issue. (See more details below)

Social Enterprise Internship Programme

The University of Nottingham

What is it?

The programme is an opportunity for Social Enterprises and the wider Third Sector (Charities and voluntary/ community groups who are either trading or considering this option) to access the research expertise of its PhD and Early Career Researchers, through a specific project.

Does the research have to fit in to current University projects?

No, the research is very much about what your organisation is looking for, and we are happy to assist if you need help and guidance in firming up a research idea into a distinct project.

Current projects taking place on the programme include:

-Evaluation of funded projects (Alternative Education Service)

-Field research to test feasibility of digital inclusion (website / ICT learning) initiative

-Interviewing service users to help shape / design future provision (Creative Arts Project)

How long will a research project take?

A research project is up to 100 hours and can be completed in a 6 week or longer period (depending on your own requirements and/or candidate availability)

What does it cost?

A research project is £2.60 + VAT per hour

What are my commitments to the researcher?

Where possible we encourage your Organisation to enable the researcher to undertake the project based at your premises, so that they get a real feel for the day to day operations of the Organisation, helping them to consider long term research or volunteering/work opportunities with your Organisation or the wider Third Sector.

The option for the researcher to do the project by distance (i.e. at the University / Home) is of course also available, but in both instances we ask that a nominated contact(s) is designated for the project period.

How do I register a research project?

We will email you a research project brief template for you to complete, which will include details of the project brief itself and the application, project start and end dates etc.

The completed project brief will be posted to candidates via a dedicated internet portal. You will then receive CVs from interested candidates and will also have the option to interview before selecting a suitable researcher to undertake your project.

The project will commence after receipt of signed contracts of engagement, which outline fully the terms and conditions of the research project (a draft copy will be emailed to the organisation for approval in the first instance).