Applications are OPEN for the
WGSSS Impact Competition 2026!
Applications are invited from current WGSSS student researchers who can show that their project has, or will have, a real, demonstrable benefit for people, organisations, communities, or wider society, in line with the ESRC definition of impact
This competition is open to WGSSS-funded Student Researchers who are still within the funded period of their award. It is understood that, depending on where you are with your PhD, you will be at a different stage of your journey to create impact. To allow for this, there are two categories for the WGSSS Impact Competition:
Achieved Impact
£500 Prize
Applications are open for any student outside of their first year (or part-time equivalent) but within their maximum funded timeframe (according to their award length).
Competition Timeline 2026
| 07/08/2026 | Competition Launch |
| 07/09/2026 | Stage 1 – Deadline to submit application form |
| 17/09/2026 | Shortlisted applicants are notified and invited to create a poster |
| 08/10/2026 | Stage 2 – Deadline to return posters |
| 12/10/2026 | Vote opens |
| 23/10/2026 | Winners announced at the WGSSS Induction event in Cardiff University |
How to Apply
There are two stages to the competition. We kindly ask that you apply only if you’re able to participate in all stages of the application process.
Stage 2
If you’re shortlisted, you’ll be asked to produce a poster.
The student posters will be shared on the WGSSS Website.
The winners will be chosen by a combination of scores from a panel of impact leaders from within the WGSSS network and an online peer vote (accessible to all WGSSS scholars).
Award
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to the WGSSS Impact Prize award ceremony.
The awards will be presented at the 2026 WGSSS Student Induction, taking place at Cardiff University on 23 October 2026.