UKRI
Economic Research on the Returns to R&D Investment
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The ESRC's Economic Research on the Returns to R&D Investment call funds rigorous empirical research on the economic and social returns to R&D investment over 24 months, with up to £246,400 available per project (80% FEC). The call welcomes UK-led teams with optional international co-leads and partners, and focuses on answering the 'Griliches Question', whether and how R&D investment generates measurable welfare gains and spillovers, with direct policy relevance. This is a one-off call; purely theoretical applications are not eligible.
Details
| Funder | UKRI |
| Budget | Up to £308,000 (80% FEC) |
| Deadline | 19 November 2026 |
| Duration | 24 months |
| Consortium | Optional — international collaboration with Alfred P. Sloan Foundation/Coefficient Giving-funded researchers encouraged; project partners and international co-leads can be included |
| Application | Single stage |
| Frequency | One-off |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Funds empirical/quantitative (or qualitative/mixed-methods) research to develop consensus estimates of economic and social returns to R&D investment, supported through the UK Metascience Unit. Projects must start by 1 April 2027; UKRI funds 80% of FEC with 20% expected from host institution; applicants encouraged to engage with parallel Alfred P. Sloan Foundation and Coefficient Giving-funded cohort.
Who Should Apply
- •UK-based lead research organisation with ESRC-eligible status
- •Researchers with expertise in econometric or empirical methods applied to innovation and productivity
- •Teams tackling spillovers, welfare gains, or policy implications of R&D investment
- •International researchers willing to apply as project co-lead or international partner
Key Dates
- •Deadline: 19 November 2026 at 4:00pm UK time
- •Single-stage submission
- •24-month project duration; projects must start by 1 April 2027
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Empirical rigour is non-negotiable, pure theory will be rejected. Ground your research questions in concrete data and methodology.
- ✓Frame your research around the 'Griliches Question' and its policy implications; ESRC values applied economic research with visible impact.
- ✓If using international co-leads or partners, clarify the roles of each institution in writing; the lead organisation submits, but co-lead and partner contributions must be explicit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I apply for in the ESRC R&D Returns call?
Up to £246,400, which covers 80% of the £308,000 full economic cost (FEC); your host institution contributes the remaining 20%.
Who can be the lead organisation for this ESRC call?
Only a UK research organisation on the ESRC-approved list can submit as lead; international researchers may apply as project co-lead or partner.
Can I apply with a purely theoretical project?
No, purely theoretical applications are out of scope. The call funds empirical research with measurable data and results.
What is the 'Griliches Question'?
It refers to the fundamental economic question of whether and how R&D investment generates measurable returns, including spillovers, welfare gains, and broader economic impacts, rather than merely private profit to the firm.
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Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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