2025 Co(l)laboratory Programme Offers Real Research Opportunities for Nottinghamshire Residents

Nottingham Universities Launch Fully-Funded 10-Week Research Placements for Local Community

The University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University are key players in the academic and local community, standing out for their impressive global and national rankings as well as their collaborative initiatives. University of Nottingham is ranked 32nd in Europe and 16th in the UK by QS World University Rankings 2024, the University of Nottingham is a founding member of the prestigious Russell Group. With campuses in China and Malaysia, the university emphasizes a global approach to education, research, and industry partnerships. Notably, Nottingham was named Sports University of the Year 2024 and holds the 7th position for research power in the UK, according to REF 2021.

The university’s research addresses critical global challenges such as sustainable food production, combating modern slavery, and developing greener transport solutions. Nottingham graduates are highly sought after, ranking second among top UK employers. The university's commitment to local prosperity is evident through its collaboration for the Nottingham initiative. Nottingham Trent University, in partnership with the University of Nottingham, invites community members to apply for a fully-funded 10-week research placement through the Co(l)laboratory programme. This initiative is part of the Universities for Nottingham Civic Agreement, an ambitious eight-year project designed to foster collaboration between academia and the community.

The programme aims to support local growth, broaden opportunities, drive change, and enhance well-being. This collaborative effort underscores both universities' dedication to making a positive impact on the local community and addressing pressing societal issues through research and innovation. The Co(l)laboratory Research Placements offer participants the opportunity to work on real, community-focused research projects tackling local challenges. Designed for individuals across Nottinghamshire, the placements last at least 10 weeks, requiring a commitment of 14 hours per week. Applications for the next cohort are open until 2 March 2025, with the study period set to begin on 28 April 2025.

To apply for the Co(l)laboratory programme, candidates must be UK permanent residents living in Nottinghamshire or nearby, without a postgraduate degree, professional research experience, or current enrollment in a university. The programme seeks individuals with curiosity, a passion for learning, and an analytical mindset. Successful applicants will gain practical research experience, receive a £1,300 bursary, and access PhD-level training, resources, and networks.

The 2025 Citizen Scientist Research Projects, developed in collaboration with local community organizations, cover a range of impactful topics. These include "Sustainable Resources and Wellbeing: Scoping the Holistic Benefits of Community Leaf Gathering in Nottingham," "Beyond Green: Community Participation Towards Resilient Urban Nature," and "Engaging with and Communicating Music Provision, Education, Activities, and Performance Opportunities to Children and Young People Across Nottinghamshire." Other projects include "Developing New Artists, Artist Groups, and Organisations in Nottingham" and "Popular Protest and Political Representation in Nottingham: Drawing Contemporary Lessons from the 1850s and 1860s."

For further information on the 2025 Research Placements, including details about webinars and drop-in sessions, interested individuals can explore additional resources to learn more. The project is funded by Research England, along with Nottingham Trent University and the University of Nottingham. Further details about the Co(l)laboratory Programme can also be found through the available resources.

Editor's Note:

The University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University continue to demonstrate their commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. With prestigious global and national rankings, these universities not only lead in education and research but also play a pivotal role in local development through innovative programs like the Co(l)laboratory. This initiative bridges the gap between academia and the community, fostering growth, broadening opportunities, and driving positive change. 

Skoobuzz believes that as these institutions address global challenges and support local prosperity, their collaborative efforts underscore the importance of higher education in shaping a better future for all.