EWB-UK Research Projects can be undertaken in a variety of ways. The most common is as a third or fourth year degree project, but the research proposals can also be undertaken in a variety of ways such as a group project in the first or second year, or as extra-curricular work. The EWB Research Programme is designed to be flexible depending on how a university, and the student, wishes to undertake the project. EWB-UK acts as an initial link providing the student with the NGO contact and project proposal, but throughout the project EWB steps back and communication occurs directly between the student, the university, and the NGO. If problems do occur, EWB can act as a mediator between the student and the NGO.

There can be delays in communication due to the nature of these projects, so the student does need to be self-motivated and able to work independently. Once the project has been set up, the organisation is expected to give the student up to 2 hours of time per month (this is expected to be mainly through email). EWB-UK does not require an academic minimum from students, or require a particular academic content in the report as we feel that this is the university’s area. However, different projects will require different academic backgrounds and levels of experience, and EWB-UK can help advice a student on whether a project proposal is suitable for their background.

EWB-UK will support the student throughout the entire project process. The Research Programme is able to provide small grants of up to £200 to students working on affiliated projects (dependant on successful application). These grants are intended to be used for costs involved in undertaking the research project (not implementation of the proposed solution – see the EWB-UK Bursaries Programme) – for example, travel costs to visit experts or development professionals, or costs of purchasing prototype materials. Students also have access to the contact network of EWB-UK development professionals.

EWB-UK will publish completed projects online, subject to checking of accuracy and quality. We also like the Research students to stay involved with the Programme, either as a contact point regarding their new area of expertise, or to work with EWB to help identify and propose father projects which may have arisen from their own work. EWB-UK also encourages students to implement their work where applicable and funding and support can be obtained through the EWB-UK Bursaries Programme.

If you have any questions, please contact the Research Team.