The XCEPT Research Fund is commissioning research that deepens our understanding of conflict-affected borderlands and how conflicts connect across borders, and the implications for peace and stability.
We are accepting proposals for research under the following themes; follow the links below to see further detail for each call for proposals.
- Feminist approaches to power, agency, and response in conflict-affected borderlands
For a series of papers applying a feminist lens to the study of borderlands shaped by conflict. (Up to £15k per paper)
- Policy responses to address conflict economies in borderlands
For 4-8 projects on challenges related to conflict economies and how licit/illicit economic activity intersects with conflict and governance in borderlands. (Up to £120k per project)
- Climate change, informal trade, and instability in conflict-affected borderlands
For one research project examining the links between climate stress, informal cross-border trade, and instability in conflict-affected borderlands. (£120k available)
- Future Horn, future Sudans: multiple and competing centres
For a series of projects exploring the rise of multiple and competing centres of authority in the Horn and beyond. (Up to £120k per project)
Who should apply?
We are inviting proposals from both individual researchers and organisations, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Consortia and partnerships are also welcome to apply.
We strongly encourage applications from researchers and research organisations based in or from countries in the Global South, either independently or in collaboration with Global North partners. We also welcome interdisciplinary approaches and collaborations between academics and policy professionals.
Application process
The application process will vary slightly depending on the funding call:
- The “Feminist frontiers” call will follow a single-stage process, requiring only an abstract submission.
- All other opportunities will follow a two-stage process, with select initial concept notes shortlisted for full proposal submission.
We anticipate that most selected projects will begin in November or December 2025. Projects will generally run for 12 months.