About Independent social research foundation
The Independent Social Research Foundation (ISRF) is a non-profit organization that aims to promote interdisciplinary research in the social sciences. The foundation was established in 2008 and has since then been providing funding for innovative research projects that challenge conventional thinking and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
The ISRF believes that social science research should be independent, critical, and creative. It supports researchers who are willing to take risks and explore new ideas, even if they go against prevailing theories or paradigms. The foundation encourages interdisciplinary collaboration among scholars from different fields, as it recognizes the value of diverse perspectives in addressing complex social issues.
One of the key features of the ISRF is its commitment to supporting early career researchers. The foundation offers a range of grants and fellowships for postdoctoral researchers who are within five years of completing their PhDs. These awards provide financial support for up to two years, allowing young scholars to pursue their research interests without having to worry about funding constraints.
In addition to its grant programs, the ISRF also organizes workshops, conferences, and other events that bring together scholars from different disciplines. These events provide opportunities for networking and collaboration among researchers who share common interests but may not have had a chance to meet otherwise.
The ISRF's focus on independent research has earned it a reputation as one of the most respected organizations in the field of social science research. Its grants have supported groundbreaking work on topics such as inequality, democracy, globalization, migration, and many others.
One notable example is Dr. Lisa McKenzie's project on class inequality in Britain today which was awarded an ISRF fellowship grant in 2015-2016 . Dr McKenzie used her fellowship award from ISRF towards writing her book "Getting By: Estates Class & Culture In Austerity Britain" which explores how working-class communities are affected by austerity policies implemented by successive UK governments since 2008 financial crisis .
Another example is Dr Kieran Oberman's project on the ethics of immigration control which was awarded an ISRF mid-career fellowship grant in 2018-2019. Dr Oberman used his fellowship award from ISRF towards writing his book "The Ethics of Immigration Control" which explores the moral and political implications of different approaches to immigration control.
The ISRF's commitment to independent research has also led it to establish partnerships with other organizations that share its values. For example, it has collaborated with the British Academy on a joint program called "Rethinking Society for the 21st Century", which aims to promote interdisciplinary research on pressing social issues.
Overall, the Independent Social Research Foundation is a vital organization that supports innovative and independent research in the social sciences. Its commitment to early career researchers and interdisciplinary collaboration makes it a valuable resource for scholars who are looking to make a difference in their fields. With its focus on critical thinking and creative exploration, the ISRF is sure to continue making important contributions to social science research for years to come.