Funding Opportunity: Royal Society International Exchanges 2026

Call for Collaboration

I am looking for international collaborators to develop a joint application for the Royal Society International Exchanges scheme. This programme provides funding for new collaborations, one-off visits, and bilateral travel to strengthen researchers' networks.

As the UK Lead, I am available to collaborate on topics related to:

• User-centric transit planning and operation
• AI for Transit
• Integrating Passenger & Freight Transport

Unlike fellowships, this scheme focuses on bilateral travel and establishing new research links. The UK partner typically leads the submission.

Overview

The International Exchanges scheme is designed for UK-based scientists who want to stimulate new research collaborations with leading scientists overseas. The funds can be used for:

• One-off short visits (up to 3 months) to explore new opportunities (up to £3,000).
• Bilateral travel for multiple visits over 2 years (up to £12,000).

Cost Share Rounds

The Royal Society also runs Cost Share rounds with international partners, offering matching funding (e.g., up to £12,000 from the Royal Society + equivalent from the overseas partner).

Key partners relevant to our networks include:

• NSFC (China)
• JSPS (Japan)
• NSTC (Taiwan)
• CNR (Italy)

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for this collaboration:

• Both applicants must have a PhD.
• The collaboration must be new. This scheme does not support continuing work with former colleagues or students.
• The overseas applicant must hold a permanent or fixed-term contract in an eligible institution outside the UK.

Deadlines (2026)

Applications are open year-round with three main decision points:

• Round 1: Closes 18 March 2026 (Global Round).
• Round 2: Closes Early June 2026.
• Round 3: Closes Late September 2026.

If you are interested in developing a joint proposal, please reach out to me as soon as possible to discuss our potential collaboration.