Royal Society Entrepreneur in Residence

The Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) scheme, delivered by the Royal Society, supports collaboration between academia and industry by placing experienced industrial scientists and entrepreneurs within UK universities. The programme aims to strengthen innovation, promote research translation and increase awareness of industrial science and entrepreneurship within academic environments.

Successful applicants are supported to spend around one day per week at a host university, developing bespoke projects that expose staff and students to real-world research challenges and commercial opportunities. Activities may include mentoring, supporting spinouts, advising on commercialisation and building links between academia and industry.

The scheme provides funding towards the individual’s salary, as well as travel and project costs, enabling flexible and tailored engagement. Awards typically support activity over a fixed period, helping embed industry expertise within university settings and fostering long-term collaboration.

By connecting academic research with practical industry insight, the programme helps universities translate ideas into real-world applications and strengthens the UK’s innovation ecosystem. It also supports professional development for participants and encourages a stronger culture of entrepreneurship across the research community.

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