Chevening Research, Science, and Innovation Leadership Fellowship (CRISP)
Hosted by the University of Oxford
Open for applications until 7 October 2025, at 12:00 (UTC)
Overview
The Chevening Research, Science, and Innovation Leadership Fellowship (CRISP) is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
It’s for mid-career professionals from India and Sri Lanka who demonstrate outstanding potential in the fields of science, innovation, and business.
With a focus on cutting-edge strategies in public policy analysis and effective governance, this programme will empower fellows to drive meaningful change in their communities.
The fellowship will take place at St. Cross College, University of Oxford.
Duration
The duration of this fellowship is 11 weeks.
- Start: April
- End: June
More about the programme
Are you ready to sharpen your policy skills, engage with leading experts, and respond to some of India and Sri Lanka’s most pressing challenges?
The Chevening Research, Science, and Innovation Leadership Fellowship (CRISP) offers a unique opportunity for 14 exceptional candidates to develop their leadership skills in the following areas:
- Enhancing the effectiveness of government schemes, including analysing and improving their delivery mechanisms to ensure they meet their intended objectives
- Strengthening data-driven decision-making, including integrating robust data analysis into policy processes to inform and guide governmental decisions
- Improving transparency and accountability in public administration through high-quality report writing and stakeholder engagement, fostering trust and efficiency in governance
Fellows will gain:
- Practical experience, working directly with government teams on implementing and improving social sector policies
- Advanced skills in data analysis, policy evaluation, and report writing to influence evidence-based decision-making
- Mentorship from senior civil servants and exposure to high-level governance processes, enhancing their leadership and public administration capabilities
Applications are open!
Ready to turn your ambitions and experiences into lasting change?
Eligibility
In addition to meeting our standard eligibility criteria, you must:
- Be a citizen of India or Sri Lanka and currently live in the country
- Have a postgraduate level qualification (or equivalent professional training or experience in a relevant area) at the time of application
- Have at least seven years’ work experience prior to applying
- Have demonstrable commitment to innovation and the experience and aptitude to contribute to the programme
- Have an excellent academic background in science, engineering, or technology, or considerable experience of working in such fields
Successful individuals may have significant experience as:
- Executives of service companies, manufacturing businesses, or state-owned companies
- Entrepreneurs and individuals who serve and fund the entrepreneurial community
- Research scientists
- Academics and public-sector employees
Funding and benefits
Each fellowship includes:
- Full programme fees
- Living expenses for the duration of the fellowship
- Return economy airfare
Hear from our fellows
The CRISP Fellowship opened up a new world for me in understanding organisational behaviours, the power of networking, and managing personal relationships. During the first week, we were told that the fellowship programme is aimed at developing fellows for the next decade. After 10 weeks of being on the CRISP Fellowship at Oxford, I seem to truly have gained 10 years of experience and wisdom thanks to the amazing expert speakers, mentors, and the programme director.
Chevening CRISP Fellow
