SRF case studies

Digital scholarship @ Oxford (DiSc) is a programme which aims to transform the landscape of digitally enhanced scholarship in Oxford. 

DiSc made a compelling case of why they needed to invest in crucial infrastructure of their Digital Humanities Software developers in order to underpin research capability and build capacity in this burgeoning area. DiSc will encourage the new generation of digitally fluent scholars, extending transformation of research further into culture and language using digital techniques and methods at scale and collaboratively.
Whilst the SRF is not primarily about teaching, the inclusion and development of the MSt in Digital Scholarship is a valuable asset in developing capability in digital humanities, the use of digital research methods and using digital technology, ensuring Oxford is seen as the place to study this. Alongside the Fellowships and Internships/Placements, the programme provides an ambitious step change in this provision for the long term.
 

Find out more about the Digital scholarship @ Oxford application (PDF)

Oxford Net Zero is an interdisciplinary research initiative based on the University of Oxford’s fifteen years of research on climate neutrality. Their Senior Research Professor and research fellows are working to track progress, align standards and inform effective solutions in climate science, law, policy, economics, clean energy, transport, land and food systems and Greenhouse Gas Removal.
In only twelve months, Oxford Net Zero has catalysed a group of highly sought after, interdisciplinary academics; recruited a diverse and talented set of senior international fellows; and established itself as a credible resource for understanding and setting robust net zero commitments among state and non-state actors.  
Oxford Net Zero shares its mission with the ZERO in bringing researchers together to elevate the University of Oxford as a centre of research excellence and leadership on the zero-carbon transition.
 

Find out more about the Oxford Net Zero application (PDF) 

Oxford has more than 60 groups involved in quantum science and technology across the University, making the Oxford Quantum Institute one of the most diverse and significant groupings in the UK.
Quantum computers and a broad range of quantum technologies are developing rapidly. OQI will position Oxford as globally-leading in the development and application of quantum-enabled tools and capabilities across the science and engineering disciplines. The institute will build on our strengths and create the diverse community required to apply these new capabilities to global challenges, such as climate change, quantum chemistry, computational biology and healthcare.
Much of the Institute’s work is aimed toward quantum technology: harnessing quantum effects in a new generation of devices that will outperform existing machines. They also have research ranging from quantum foundations through to the role of quantum physics in living systems.
 

Find out more about the Oxford Quantum Institute application (PDF) 

The ZERO (Zero-carbon Energy Research Oxford) Institute brings together researchers from across the University of Oxford to tackle questions surrounding zero-carbon energy systems, elevating Oxford as a centre of research excellence and leadership on the zero-carbon transition. 
The task to get to a zero-carbon energy system is urgent. Over 70% of the greenhouse gases responsible for climate heating come from the conversion and use of energy. The transition to a zero-carbon energy system is therefore critical for establishing a stable climate.
Even before recruitment to the new positions is complete, in its first nine months ZERO has connected many stakeholders and established a cross-sector co-working space with The Energy Systems Accelerator (mini-TESA) at Osney Mead. 

Find out more about the ZERO application (PDF) 

The SRF is designed to prime large scale initiatives that then become financially sustainable, through co-investments provided by departments and/or divisions, which is why it has set out a set of application guidelines. When a proposal does not clearly address how its objectives meet the key features of the SRF, it is likely that the SRF Board will not approve further development to a business case. The Board will provide constructive feedback on applications.

Outlines of why some SRF applications were not successful (PDF)