TORCH International Partnership Scheme
TORCH International Partnership Scheme
International Engagement at TORCH
International Engagement at TORCH facilitates and supports connections and collaborations between University of Oxford researchers and those at non-UK institutions. We encourage interdisciplinary and creative approaches to research across the Humanities.
What is the International Partnership Scheme?
This scheme aims to encourage and support collaborations between Oxford researchers in the Humanities and partners in institutions outside of the UK. Projects must be strategically shaped to support the wider research environment within the University. TORCH encourages an interdisciplinary and creative approach to research across the Humanities.
The submission deadline is:
Michaelmas Term | Week 2 | Friday, 21 October 2022 |12:00 noon (BST)
Who can apply?
Principal applicants must be postholders holding a permanent research-based position in the Humanities. In the case of co-applicants, they do not need to meet the requirement of being a postholder.
International partners should be listed on the application form but will not submit the final application. International partners can be researchers or groups of researchers from foreign academic institutions (regardless of their nationality); museums, theatres and other cultural institutions; artists and writers affiliated to international educational or cultural institutions. There need not be an already existing formal collaboration between the University of Oxford and the proposed international partners.
What activities/projects can be funded?
Funding is intended to support a new or ongoing collaboration between researchers at the University of Oxford and international partners. All funds must be spent, and activities carried out, by 1 July, 2023. Activities which are eligible for funding include (but are not limited to):
- Travel, accommodation and subsistence to facilitate collaboration
- Conferences, workshops, summer schools and associated costs
- Costs related to supporting performances, exhibitions or speakers
- Performances, showcases, and exhibitions
What level of funding and support is available?
The TORCH International Partnership scheme aims to support and develop strategic partnerships between University of Oxford academics and international partners. Grants of up to £3,000 for projects are available, with funding over £3,000 available for large cross-divisional projects.
TORCH provides successful applicants with in-kind support including a website and promotion, as well as logistical support for events and travel.
Applications for funds of over £3,000 may also be considered, however, these will need to include evidence of ambitious cross-disciplinary activity. Applicants for sums of £3,000+ are required to discuss their plans with Professor María del Pilar Blanco, the TORCH Academic Champion for Networks and Partnerships, before submitting an application.
Indicative costs guidance documents
The following indicative costs guidance document have been created by TORCH for use in the Humanities Cultural Programme, and may be useful as a reference while submitting an International Fellowship application. Please note this document is intended as a guide only and accurate costs are the responsibility of the applicant(s).
https://torch.web.ox.ac.uk/files/humanitiesculturalprogramme-indicativecostsforgoodsandservicespdf-0
Please also review the University of Oxford Expenses Policy for detailed information about what can be claimed as an expense. The International Officer can offer advice about creating budgets as part of this application process.
How are applications reviewed?
Applications are reviewed by a panel comprised of TORCH academic leads and members of the TORCH Management Committee, against the key areas given below:
- Context and rationale for the proposed partnership. Applications should clearly explain how the International collaboration will contribute to the strategic aims and activities of the Humanities Division and University as a whole.
- Proposed events and activities. Activities should have a clear timeline and intended audience. Applications should highlight academic benefits for audiences, participants, and the University.
- Lasting legacy. Applicants are advised to describe the proposed output and explained the envisioned future legacy, including new connections and opportunities for further collaboration and development. Applicants should consider how the Partnership complements or challenges existing TORCH projects, networks or programmes, or across Oxford Humanities more generally.
- Deliverability and budgeting. Applications should include detailed and realistic timelines for activity. Any substantial risks to activity/timelines should be considered and mitigations supplied where possible. Budgets should be well considered and achievable within the University’s financial guidelines. The International Officer (see below) can review budgets and provide advice in advance of the submission of applications. The payment of professional fees and equipment costs are particularly complex – applicants whose budgets include professional fees/equipment are required to contact the International Officer for advice before submitting an application. Applications should note whether any other related internal/external funding exists and give details of the source and proposed use of that funding.
How are applications submitted?
Oxford applicants must submit the application via IRAMS. The application includes a ‘Case for Support' form. Applications must be submitted by a permanent postholder at the University of Oxford Single Sign-On (SSO) account. Collaborator(s) from a non-UK Institution can be named on the application, but are not able to edit the form without an SSO.
Candidates are strongly encouraged to consult the Notes for Guidance in advance of application.
For additional questions or support please contact Dr Anbara Khalidi, the International Officer: anbara.khalidi@humanities.ox.ac.uk
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