The Leverhulme Trust aims to encourage new approaches that may establish or reshape a field of study and so transform our understanding of a significant contemporary topic. Supported proposals are, therefore, invited to be bold in compiling their bids. The centres should have the capacity to become recognised internationally for excellence in their chosen area.

The Trust has a reputation for encouraging higher-risk research, which is therefore often fundamental or curiosity-driven – so-called ‘blue skies’ – and multi-disciplinary. The expectation is that centres will draw upon a range of disciplinary perspectives and expertise, perhaps bringing new disciplinary mixes to bear on a particular topic. Projects can cover the full Leverhulme remit.

Further information on the Leverhulme Research Centres.

The University of Bath is permitted to submit only one application as lead. As such we are running the following internal selection process:

Phase 1

Launch of selection process and development of ideas: May–September 2026

The opportunity Teams page introduces the scheme and gives further information on what the Leverhulme are looking for and what they will fund etc. There is guidance on what the University expectations are in terms of establishing a Centre and information on each of the existing Leverhulme Centres.

The Team and selection process is of interest to those who have an idea for a Centre and those who want to contribute to an idea but cannot lead. The Teams page can be used as a place to network and share ideas with colleagues.

The Teams page will be used to update information on the selection process, development of projects in development and a sharing of ideas and expertise across the university.

Phase 2

Initial Expressions of Interest: September 2026

Teams with an interest in establishing a Leverhulme Centre are asked to submit a short Expression of Interest that details both the vision for the Centre and describe the contribution of disciplines from at least three of the four Faculties and School. A proforma for this EoI will be available on the Teams page and the deadline for submissions is expected to be mid Sept. Details to follow.

These EoI will be used as the basis for selecting up to three teams who would then be the only teams moving forward to submit an extended expression of interest during phase 3 below. Selection criteria will be shared on the Teams page and decisions made by panel.

Phase 3

Selection of Bath’s team: October-December 2026

The three teams will be asked to draw up an extended Expression of Interest for an internal panel in Dec. The teams can work with RIS for additional support in opening their networks and make sure that what they present to the panel is a viable idea for Leverhulme funding. Resources will be available to support travel, RA time and workshops etc.

A pan-university panel will consider each of the three extended expressions of Interest against both the Leverhulme criteria and the fit with Bath’s intellectual expertise and capacity. This panel will include the PVC (Research), the ADRs (Research) and a selection of others from each Faculty/School.

RIS will then work with the selected team to prepare their application leading up to the June 2027 deadline.

The unsuccessful teams will be supported by RIS to find alternative avenues for their ideas and collaboration.

Further information can be found on the opportunity Teams page: Leverhulme Centres Selection Process 2026/27 or by emailing ResDev@Bath.ac.uk.