Key dates and information
- Call opens: 20 April 2022 (12:00 GMT/BST)
- Call closes: 25 May 2022 (17:00 GMT/BST)
- Notifications: 1 June 2022
- Award start date: 20 June 2022
- Award end date: 30 November 2022
- Total fund: £40,000
- Maximum award: £10,000
A new public engagement fund
To empower and support researchers to bolster their public engagement efforts and enrich their own research, a new funding and support programme for public engagement activity has been established by the Institute.
This fund is open to any researchers from universities in the UK, and you don’t need to be experienced in public engagement, as we will provide training and one-on-one coaching. We are particularly interested to hear from applicants who consider themselves to be part of a group who are traditionally underrepresented in AI and data science, and funds are available to support those who may not otherwise be able to take part.
Through this funding call, we hope to encourage and support researchers to engage creatively with the public around data science and AI technologies.
For further details, please see the Call Document and FAQs which can be downloaded from the bottom of this page.
Why?
Public perceptions of data science and AI technologies can be polarised - between hype and dismay in response to negative news coverage or high-profile examples of poor implementation - leading to public distrust or misunderstanding around new and innovative technologies which rely on data science and AI.
By engaging with the public around data science and AI technologies, we can begin dialogues with those who are or may be impacted by it. This helps us to understand the needs of the public so that we can shape our work around the needs and expectations of wider society.
As the national institute we recognise our responsibility to listen, act and inform.
Objectives
Proposals should align with the following objectives:
- Expand and promote public understanding of AI and data science in society
- Provide balanced, unbiased information in an accessible format, highlighting both the risks and benefits of AI and emerging technologies in society
- Widen participation by inspiring members of the public that may not usually interact with science to take an interest and have a voice in AI and data science
- Achieve clear and measurable impact
Equality, diversity and inclusion
The Alan Turing Institute is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We expect all applications to consider how their activity demonstrates equality, diversity, and inclusion, from inception to dissemination.
Reasonable adjustments and support
The Institute recognises there may be individual circumstances that colleagues at the Institute need to be aware of. The Institute aims to accommodate specific needs and personal circumstances, some of which may require additional funding. More information about reasonable adjustments and additional support can be found in the Call Document, which can be downloaded from the bottom of this page.
Contact
Interested applicants should first consult the Call Document and FAQ document (which can be downloaded from the bottom of this page) and send any unanswered queries to [email protected].
How to apply
Applications must be made through the online application form. Please read the Call Document and FAQs (which can be downloaded from the bottom of this page) before starting your application. For any queries, please contact [email protected] or call 07961 479 488.
Further guidance
- Planning for impact – you will be asked to produce an impact plan as part of your application. Fast Track Impact has some great resources, however you should feel free to use any other method or planning tool you prefer.
- Targeting your audience – the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE) provides practical tips on how to reach your target audience.
- Equality, diversity and inclusion – there is a wealth of knowledge available to help you plan EDI into your work; this guide from Imperial College London is a good place to start.
- Assessment and evaluation – you will be required to submit an impact evaluation report at the end of the Award period. The NCPPE has a lot of information and guidance about planning this in at the beginning of your project.