ESRC stands for Economic and Social Research Council. It is a UK-based funding agency that supports and promotes research in the fields of social sciences and economics. Established in 1965, the ESRC is one of the major research councils in the UK, operating under the umbrella of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
The ESRC's primary mission is to fund research that addresses key societal challenges and contributes to the understanding and enhancement of economic and social well-being. It provides grants and funding opportunities to researchers and institutions, enabling them to carry out high-quality, impactful studies across various disciplines within the social sciences, including sociology, politics, anthropology, economics, and more.
In addition to funding research projects, the ESRC also plays a crucial role in shaping research policy and strategy in the UK. It actively engages with researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to prioritize research areas, identify emerging trends, and maximize the impact of social science research on society.
The ESRC supports diverse research initiatives, ranging from individual projects to large interdisciplinary programs and research centers. It encourages collaboration and knowledge exchange between academia, policymakers, and the public, aiming to promote evidence-based decision-making and contribute to the development of policies that address social and economic challenges in the UK and globally.
Overall, the ESRC plays a vital role in funding, supporting, and promoting social science research that addresses pressing societal issues, fosters innovation, and contributes to the well-being and development of individuals, communities, and economies.
