Times Higher is reporting that Research Council success rates have sunk to an all-time low:

Fewer grants means fight for the prize is tougher

RCUK are reportedly “concerned” about the dip in overall success rates, which now stands at 23% aggregated across all the councils. ESRC and AHRC are lowest, with success rates now below 20%. However, the data should be treated with some caution: STFC results aren’t available and ESRC data only includes responsive mode applications, not bids for strategic funds.

As reported earlier in the year, EPSRC have taken matters into their own hands by toughening up their resubmission policy, although they have backed down from some of the more punitive measures proposed initially. If the downward trend in RC success rates continues, perhaps other research councils will take similar action to drive up quality and reduce numbers of submissions.

It’s more important than ever to take the time to develop your bid before submission – contact a mentor or more experienced colleague to assist you in your bid writing and get in touch with the Research Office for more general advice and help with bidding and costings.