The Research & Policy Grant supports early career researchers in conducting high-quality secondary analyses of IEA international large-scale assessment data, with a strong focus on policy-relevant research for the European Education Area. This annual grant is a joint initiative of the European Commission (DG EAC) and IEA. Full details of the R&P Grant can be found here. Deadline for submissions are 31 March 2026.
The Research & Policy (R&P) Grant for Early Career Researchers provides financial support and expert guidance to promising researchers working with IEA international large-scale assessment (ILSA) data. The program aims to strengthen capacity building, foster international collaboration, and generate research that informs education policy related to basic skills development across Europe. Funded projects focus on secondary analyses of IEA studies such as TIMSS, PIRLS, ICCS, and ICILS, and address key EU education priorities.
- €20,000 grant per project (paid as a lump sum to the researcher or their institution)
- 12-month research period
- Priority access to IEA training in Hamburg (summer 2026)
- Methodological and thematic expert support from IEA and DG EAC
- Opportunities for policy dialogue and dissemination at European level
Proposals must focus on one of the following thematic areas:
- Foundational skills in primary education (Grade 4)
Reading, mathematics, and science outcomes and their determinants - Digital well-being and social media
ICT use, digital skills, engagement, and student well-being - Equity and social inclusion
Socio-economic, migration, language, and geographic disparities - Democratic values and citizenship
Civic knowledge, democratic attitudes, and student participation
Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria, including:
- PhD candidates or researchers who obtained their first doctoral degree within the last five years
(or master’s degree holders with limited additional research experience) - Demonstrated capacity to conduct quantitative secondary analyses of IEA data
- A clearly defined research project with EU policy relevance
- Support from at least one senior researcher or policy expert (supervisor)
- Proficiency in English
Researchers of all nationalities are welcome to apply. Full call details can be found in the PDF document here.
Applications must be submitted electronically via the IEA Grant Platform.
Required documents include:
- Research proposal (structured according to the call guidelines)
- CV of the applicant
- Proof of degree or doctoral enrolment
- Letter of support from supervisor
- Letter of support from host institution (if applicable)
Deadline for submissions: 31 March 2026
Full call details can be found in the PDF document here.
Apply via: https://iea.grantplatform.com/
For questions or clarifications, please contact: rpgrant@iea.nl