Our expectations are that projects funded under this funding opportunity will: 

1. undertake novel research;
2. use rigorous and robust research methodologies, including adherence to internationally recognised ethical standards;
3. achieve policy impact and public benefit; 
4. involve potential users of the research in a way that maximises the likelihood that they will take up and use the findings  

We are interested in a range of different methodological approaches, from desk-based reviews of evidence to analysis based on primary data collection, and any combination thereof that is appropriate to the research question. Likewise, we welcome approaches that explore single case studies or compare across multiple cases.  

This research is intended to inform policy and programme officials at the national, regional and international levels, but the research should also benefit the wider public good. It is therefore important to set out how you intend to identify and actively engage relevant users of the research, as well as other stakeholders. 

The research proposed should examine multi-actor intervention(s) in conflict settings – for example interventions by international or regional bodies such as the UN, World Bank, AU or ECOWAS, or ad hoc bodies such as the Global Coalition against Daesh, or the various combined task forces tackling piracy off the Somali coast.  

The intervention(s) examined may be focused on any theme, as long as there is a clear link to conflict, addressing its transnational dimensions. For example, the intervention(s) examined could be focused on preventing and countering violent extremism (PCVE), or tackling organised crime, or improving governance, or increasing stability, and so on. Whatever the case, the link to conflict and its transnational dimensions should be clearly described in the proposal. 

The research can examine any aspect of the intervention(s), but applicants should focus on areas where the findings are most likely to inform policy responses. For example, the project might examine coordination challenges faced by a coalition, or what works and what doesn’t work in peacebuilding operations, etc.   

The research should examine interventions in geographies relevant to XCEPT research. These are: West Africa; Sahel; North Africa; Horn of Africa; Middle East; Afghanistan and its bordering countries; Ukraine and its bordering countries; Western Balkans. 

We will also accept proposals that examine Central or Southern Africa, and Southeast Asia. [Para added 13 Jan in response to clarification questions.]

Research outputs should be prepared for publication in peer-reviewed journals. As appropriate, XCEPT also will consider proposals for peer-reviewed research reports geared to a policy and expert audience, for publication by the XCEPT programme. All projects should include policy-focused outputs, such as summary briefing notes and presentations to policy audiences. They should also include outputs geared for a wider public audience, such as commentaries, blogs, podcasts or videos.    

Successful applicants will, at a minimum, carry out the activities/deliverables listed below. Applicants may propose additional outputs as part of their proposal.   

1. Participate in a kick-off meeting with the XCEPT programme team, and other parties as relevant, to discuss the research approach, ways of working, reporting requirements, and other items relevant to the project.
2. Develop a research plan that details the research approach, including the methods to be used, data quality validation approach, detailed workplan, etc.
3. Conduct rigorous research. This should include, as appropriate: rigorous research, adaptation of methodology as needed, and analysis and assessment of implications as research progresses. 
4. Produce a manuscript (5,000-7,000 words) which draws together research findings in response to the research question(s).
5. Produce a briefing note (maximum 3,000 words) for international policy audiences that summarises the findings of the research and offers considerations for policy and programming. XCEPT will support peer review, editing, and typesetting of the briefing note.
6. Contribute to XCEPT policy and public uptake of research through briefings to policymakers, participation in panel discussion events, and/or publication of short articles or a podcast to accompany the dissemination of the report. XCEPT will support authors in research uptake. 

This funding opportunity is primarily aimed at individual researchers. Researchers may be contracted directly or through their institutions – please stipulate your preference in the Application Form. 

Applicants should be advanced practitioners, subject matter experts or academics engaged in research, policy or programme activities. Applicants will usually hold a PhD, but other equivalent academic or professional qualifications will also be considered – for example, we encourage applications from former policymakers with several years of experience working on these issues. Evidence of scholarly achievement at a sufficiently high level can include publications in academic journals, edited collections and monographs, pieces for professional journals and the popular media, as well as contributions to reports by governments and multilateral organisations. 

XCEPT encourages collaborative research. Proposals should consider whether the research would be strengthened through the participation of researchers with different disciplinary backgrounds, or through partnerships between academics and policy professionals.  

Researchers based in low and lower-middle income countries are strongly encouraged to apply, independently or in partnership / collaboration with researchers based in the UK and/or other upper-middle and high-income countries. If you intend to form a partnership, please describe how you will work together. You do not need to specify the legal arrangement of the partnership at this stage.  

THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST HAS NOW PASSED.

We expect to make awards between £10,000 and £25,000. 

The XCEPT Research Fund team is here to help with any questions about the application process. Questions should be directed to the XCEPT Research Fund team at xcept-fund@chemonics.com. We cannot provide feedback on individual proposal ideas.