Working internationally

We are committed to raising awareness of UK social science internationally, and enabling UK social scientists to collaborate with the best researchers across the world. We provide opportunities to research overseas, to welcome overseas collaborators to your institution, or get involved in international research networks.

International funding opportunities

You can find details of international funding opportunities in the funding opportunities section.

International policy and strategy

Working internationally is a key priority of our Strategic Plan.

Our International Network brings together expertise from ESRC's Council and Committees to provide support for international activities and strategy.

International research resources

Research resources form the foundation upon which research is conducted. Traditionally research resources were predominately focused within national boundaries, but with ever growing globalisation and interdependence there is a clear need to share data, expertise in research methods, and develop tools and techniques for successful undertaking of cross-national research.

We have been developing a number of initiatives that bring together social scientists from the UK and overseas. These initiatives aim to promote international co-operation and to advance research resource infrastructure through data sharing and collaborative analysis.

Find out more about our research resources.

Overseas offices

The Research Councils have had an overseas presence since the opening of the UK Research Office in Brussels (UKRO) in 1984. There are now also RCUK overseas offices in the US, China and India.

Further information 

For all general enquiries about our international work and opportunities, please contact us: