The University of Bath Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Impact Acceleration Account (IAA) Postdoc Impact Awards offer valuable opportunities for career and personal development through Knowledge Exchange (KE) and impact-related activities within the ESRC remit.

About the award

This exciting opportunity is now open for:

  • Research Assistants (RAs)
  • Postdoctoral Research Associates (PDRAs)

Eligible applicants can apply for funding and take on the role of Principal Investigator (PI) on an externally funded project.

To get started, simply complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form by Friday 17 October 2025.

What you’ll gain

The award supports a wide range of development opportunities, including:

  • Experience in research leadership
  • Skills in co-production and collaboration
  • Expansion of your professional network
  • Insight into research and project management tools and processes
  • Membership in a growing community of academics and professional services staff with impact expertise

Real outcomes from previous awardees

Past recipients have achieved significant outcomes and impacts, such as:

  • Securing follow-on funding to deepen impact and strengthen partnerships
  • Invitations to present at professional conferences
  • Scaling project outcomes with national professional bodies to influence healthcare training

Next steps

The ESRC IAA team offers a supported application process for eligible postdocs, including:

  • Confirmation of eligibility
  • Guidance on planning for impact and outputs
  • Support with budgeting and PAM processes

How to apply

  1. Download and read the Guidance and Criteria Notes.
  2. Complete the Expression of Interest form by Friday 17 October 2025.
  3. Eligible applicants will be invited to begin the supported application process.

Other Open IAA Funding Calls

If this award isn’t applicable to you, consider applying for the Impact Acceleration Open Call, open to academic staff from 8 September to 10 November 2025, for impact-focused projects.