The Science Policy Incubator Grant aims to help policy-oriented scholars in water diplomacy bridge the gap between research and policy. This initiative supports researchers in repackaging their findings for different audiences, preparing training materials, and engaging with policymakers to enhance the policy impact of their research.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to individual researchers who obtained their PhD within the last three years.
- Research used for the grant must be already published or undergoing peer review.
- The research does not have to be from the applicant’s PhD.
- Applicants do not need to be affiliated with an academic institution.
- Open to researchers worldwide, with particular encouragement for applicants from developing countries and female researchers.
Program Details
- Funding: Up to 12,500 CHF per individual (total grant pool of 25,000 CHF for 2-3 projects).
- Duration: 6 months following the award.
- Eligible Activities:
- Applied research: Translating academic work into policy-relevant formats, stakeholder mapping, adapting research to case studies.
- Knowledge transfer: Developing policy briefs, training materials, communication packages, digital tools.
- Engagement: Organizing dialogues, outreach with water authorities, connecting with policy-makers.
- Additional Support:
- A visit to Geneva in December 2025 for a final wrap-up meeting and event.
- Mentorship from high-level water diplomats.
- Networking opportunities and support from Geneva Water Hub staff.
- Integration of research into Geneva Water Hub’s educational and policy initiatives.
How to Apply
- Submit a 1,000-word project proposal, including:
- Budget for proposed expenses.
- Timeline for activities.
- CV listing relevant publications.
- Email applications to research@genevawaterhub.org.
- Visit the official SPI Grant page for additional details.
Important Dates
- March 8, 2025 – Opening of call for proposals
- March 24, 2025 (14:30 CET) – Webinar Q&A session
- April 17, 2025 (23:00 CET) – Application deadline
- June 2025 – Announcement of selected projects
- July 2025 – Online inception meeting
- January 2026 – Wrap-up meeting in Geneva
- February 2026 – Completion of projects and online closing meeting
Evaluation Criteria Applications will be reviewed by a scientific evaluation committee comprising Geneva Water Hub staff, an external science-policy specialist, and a water diplomacy expert. Proposals will be assessed based on:
- Policy Relevance – How well does the proposal demonstrate the need for policy applications?
- Quality of Research – Is the research methodologically sound and original?
- Impact Potential – Does the proposal outline a clear strategy for influencing policy?
- Feasibility – Are the budget and activities practical and aligned with the grant’s objectives?
For more information, please visit here.
Why Apply?
This grant is a unique opportunity for early-career researchers to bridge academic knowledge with real-world policy impact. Successful applicants will gain funding, mentorship, networking opportunities, and the chance to have their research directly inform water diplomacy and governance.
Apply now and contribute to sustainable water governance and peace-building worldwide!