Watch again: Fellowships webinar
You can now watch a recording of the recent SDR UK Fellowships Introduction webinar.
During the session on 29 July 2025, the Smart Data Research UK team outlined the key stages of the application process.
About
The SDR UK Fellowships are a new funding opportunity to support innovative research that uses smart data to help solve real-world challenges.
Smart data is generated through everyday digital interactions – including apps, social media, navigation systems and other connected devices. These data have the potential to transform our knowledge and understanding of real-world challenges, enabling us to discover novel solutions to complex societal issues.
What’s on offer
- Up to £200,000 (FEC) per project
- Support from SDR UK’s national data services, including help accessing relevant datasets
- Opportunities to collaborate with a growing community of smart data researchers
- A platform to influence policy, improve services, and shape the future of responsible data use
We will fund up to ten projects, with awards announced in December 2025 and projects starting by 1 February 2026. All projects must finish within 18 months.
Application deadline: 23 September 2025 at 4:00pm UK time.
Apply now
This opportunity is open only to applicants based at an eligible UK organisation.
Applications for the SDR UK Fellowships must be submitted through the UKRI Funding Finder, where you will also find detailed application guidance and the requirements for application.
What we’re looking for
We want to hear from researchers with big ideas. You don’t need to be a smart data expert, but you should have strong data skills, a compelling question, a creative approach, and a clear view of the impact your work could lead to.
Projects must clearly align with at least one of SDR UK’s four research themes:
- Productivity and prosperity
- Health and wellbeing
- Digital society
- Sustainability
We welcome proposals from all disciplines and career stages, with encouragement for early career researchers to apply.
If you need to contact us, our email address is smartdataresearch@ukri.org.
