How do you ensure your research continues after funding?

1 Plan ahead

One of the most important steps to ensure your research continuity is to plan ahead and anticipate the end of your funding cycle. You should start looking for new opportunities and preparing your applications at least six months before your current grant expires, and ideally even earlier. You should also review your budget and expenses regularly, and identify ways to reduce costs and optimize resources. Additionally, you should have a clear vision and objectives for your research project, and how it aligns with your career goals and the priorities of your field and institution.

2 Diversify your income

Another key strategy to secure your research future is to diversify your sources of income and explore different types of funding and grants. You should not rely on a single funder or scheme, but rather seek a variety of options that match your research interests, expertise, and needs. For example, you can apply for national and international grants, industry partnerships, fellowships, awards, scholarships, crowdfunding, donations, or consultancy services. You should also be flexible and adaptable, and consider applying for interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral, or collaborative projects that can broaden your scope and network.

3 Communicate your impact

A crucial factor that can influence your chances of getting new funding and continuing your research is how well you communicate your impact and value to your funders, peers, and the public. You should demonstrate how your research contributes to the advancement of knowledge, the solution of societal problems, the creation of innovation, or the improvement of policies and practices. You should also use various channels and formats to disseminate your findings and outputs, such as publications, presentations, podcasts, blogs, social media, or media interviews. Moreover, you should solicit and provide feedback, testimonials, endorsements, or recommendations that can support your reputation and credibility.

4 Collaborate with others

A final strategy that can help you ensure your research continuity is to collaborate with other researchers and stakeholders who share your vision and goals, and who can offer you support, resources, opportunities, or insights. You should build and maintain a strong network of contacts and relationships within and outside your field and institution, and actively engage in joint projects, events, publications, or proposals. You should also seek mentors, advisors, or sponsors who can guide you, advise you, or advocate for you in your career development and funding pursuits. Furthermore, you should involve and empower your research team, staff, or students, and provide them with training, recognition, or incentives.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?