The scheme provides the opportunity for doctoral students funded by the Research Councils of UKRI to undertake a three-month placement at one of a selected group of highly influential policy organisations. During their internship, the student undertakes training and experience on a policy topic agreed with their host partner that is relevant to both parties. The intention of the scheme is to embed students in an environment where they can engage with the process of converting research outputs into policy. These internships equip students with transferable skills and training relevant to the future career paths that the student may choose.
Full details of how to apply, including links to the online application form and guidance documents are available through the UKRI Policy Internships Scheme webpage.
The Policy Internships Scheme is coordinated by NERC on behalf of the other Research Councils of UKRI. Any queries relating to the application process should be directed to the NERC Talent and Skills team (researchcareers@nerc.ukri.org) or the relevant host partner.
The deadline to apply is 4pm on 8th September 2025.
Stipend and fees
If you are successful in your application, you may apply for the LAHP Research Extension Fund to extend your studentship for the duration of the internship.
Please note that the studentship funding end date will be extended by the length of the internship up to the maximum limit of 4 years’ funding (pro rata for part-time) – noting that this excludes any additional time added to offset sick leave or maternity/paternity leave etc. Therefore if a student has had less than 4 years’ funding, they would be entitled to a funded extension up to the 4 years limit. However, if the student has been awarded a 4 year studentship already, they would not be entitled to a further extension (and the internship would need to be carried out within the 4 year funding period).
If you have any questions about this, please contact the LAHP team