Are you an experienced entrepreneur or industrial scientist looking to make a meaningful impact in UK universities? The Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) Programme 2025 is now open for applications, offering a total of up to £50,000 in funding over two years. This prestigious opportunity supports knowledge exchange between academia and industry, helping to translate cutting-edge research into real-world innovation.
The Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) Programme 2025 is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing university-industry collaboration, increasing entrepreneurial awareness, and fostering commercial research outputs.
About the Programme
Launched in 2017, the EiR Programme has facilitated over 130 expert placements across 65 UK institutions, spanning sectors like quantum computing, energy, agri-tech, artificial intelligence, and healthcare.
The programme invites seasoned professionals from industry to embed part-time (one day per week) at a UK university to:
- Transfer state-of-the-art industrial expertise
- Support academic innovation and commercialisation
- Mentor and inspire staff and students
- Boost the university’s entrepreneurial culture
What the EiR Programme Offers
Funding and Duration
- Funding Total: Up to £50,000 over 2 years (VAT inclusive)
- Time Commitment: 0.2 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE), approx. 1 day/week
- Covered Costs: Salary contributions, travel, accommodation, and project-related expenses (e.g. events, training)
Who Can Apply?
The Royal Society welcomes applicants from all nationalities, provided they can work in the UK for the programme’s full term.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should:
- Have a strong background in science or engineering
- Demonstrate experience in one or more of the following:
- Founding or growing businesses
- University-business collaborations or R&D partnerships
- Coaching, mentoring, or training in innovation or entrepreneurship
Note: The scheme excludes clinical medicine but welcomes applicants from life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering disciplines.
Deadline and Application Process
- Deadline to Apply: 17 September 2025
- Start Date: Flexible, based on host university agreement
The selection process includes evaluation by subject-matter experts and final review by the Science, Innovation & Translation Committee of the Royal Society.
How to Apply
Ready to step into a transformational role?
👉 Click here to apply directly
👉 Read more about the programme
🧠 Expert Tips from Grant Database
According to the grants advisory team at GrantsDatabase.org, a successful EiR proposal should emphasize:
“Alignment between the applicant’s industrial expertise and the host university’s research strengths. Clearly outline how you’ll add value—through mentorship, translational support, or commercialisation efforts. Keep the proposal specific, outcome-driven, and institution-focused.”
Need professional support to draft or refine your application?
📩 Contact grantsdatabase.org for expert proposal drafting, refining, and review services.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) Programme 2025 is more than just a funding opportunity—it’s a platform to shape the future of innovation in the UK’s academic sector. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or R&D leader, this is your chance to drive change at the intersection of science and industry.
Apply today and become part of a powerful legacy of research-driven impact.
