SFI Industry RD&I Fellowship Programme 2024

Overview

To qualify for the SFI Industry RD&I Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. Candidates should be academic researchers, including faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, or late-stage PhD candidates. They should demonstrate a strong research background and an ability to collaborate effectively with industry partners. Additionally, applicants must show that their research aligns with the interests and challenges of the industry partner with whom they wish to collaborate. Clear communication and a commitment to mutual benefit between academia and industry are essential.

About the Scholarship

The SFI Industry RD&I Fellowship Programme invites academic researchers, at various stages in their careers, to apply for fellowships that support them in gaining valuable industry experience. Funded by Science Foundation Ireland, these fellowships are aimed at enhancing partnerships between academic and industrial research to address sector-specific issues. Successful applicants will be placed with industry partners, allowing them to collaborate on projects that drive innovation and benefit both academia and industry. This programme is open to researchers across all fields of study, reflecting the diverse nature of today's industrial challenges.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the SFI Industry RD&I Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. Candidates should be academic researchers, including faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, or late-stage PhD candidates. They should demonstrate a strong research background and an ability to collaborate effectively with industry partners. Additionally, applicants must show that their research aligns with the interests and challenges of the industry partner with whom they wish to collaborate. Clear communication and a commitment to mutual benefit between academia and industry are essential.

Benefits and Financial Coverage

The SFI Industry RD&I Fellowship Programme offers substantial benefits for selected candidates. Participants receive partial funding of up to EUR 100,000 to support their research placements, covering various costs such as travel, accommodation, and project-related expenses. This financial assistance enables researchers to immerse themselves in industry settings, facilitating knowledge exchange and skills development that are crucial for advancing their careers.

How to Apply

Review the eligibility criteria and ensure you qualify. Prepare necessary documents including a research proposal and CV. Access the SESAME platform to submit your proposal. Follow guidelines for application submission. Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline of 26 Jun, 2026.

Application Timeline and Deadlines

The application for the SFI Industry RD&I Fellowship Programme typically follows a set timeline. The crucial deadline for submitting proposals is on 26 Jun, 2026. Candidates should plan their applications accordingly to ensure all materials are prepared and submitted on time.

Selection Process

The selection process for the SFI Industry RD&I Fellowship Programme is competitive. Applications are assessed based on the strength of the research proposal, relevance to industry challenges, and the applicant’s qualifications. Successful candidates will be notified shortly after the application deadline and will undergo further steps to finalize their fellowship arrangements.

FAQs

The fellowship is open to academic researchers at the faculty, postdoctoral, and late-stage PhD levels.
The program offers partial funding of up to EUR 100,000.
The application deadline is 26 Jun, 2026.
All research fields are eligible, with a focus on industry-related challenges.
Applications should be submitted via the SESAME platform.
The fellowship can last for up to 2 years.
Yes, the program is open to researchers from all nationalities.
Applications are evaluated based on proposal strength and alignment with industry needs.