PSSC Fellowship Program for the Social Sciences

GRANTS

Fellowship initiative that supports evidence-based social science research on SDGs 3, 4, and 16.

The PSSC Fellowship Program for the Social Sciences (PFPSS) is the Philippine Social Science Council’s first fellowship initiative. The program aims to support evidence-based research and foster policy dialogue aligned with PSSC’s research priorities, particularly Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), 4 (Quality Education), and 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

Objectives

Produce in-house research to enhance evidence-based policymaking and strategic decision-making,
Engage policy and decision makers in social science discourse to recognize social science contribution in national development, and
Develop greater confidence in PSSC’s ability to initiate, monitor, and assess impactful SDG-related research.

Eligibility

An applicant must meet the following requirements to be considered for the program:

Must be a member of a regular or associate PSSC member-association.
Must hold a PhD in a relevant social science discipline.
Must have at least two (2) peer-reviewed publications related to the proposed research topic.
Must hold a position of Assistant Professor or higher.
Must be currently employed at a higher education institution in the Philippines.

Application Requirements

A fellow applying for the program must complete/have the following requirements:

Cover Letter indicating which of PSSC’s Research Agendas the applicant intends to address—specifically SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions),
Curriculum Vitae (maximum of 3 pages) detailing relevant research experience, publications, awards, and academic or professional positions held,
Research Proposal (maximum of 7 pages) including the research rationale, objectives and framework, methodology, and references,
Soft copies of major published works, and
Endorsement from a PSSC member-association, submitted via the designated Google Form.

Process

1. Selection: After the Call for Applications, the Research Committee will convene to review submissions and select one (1) fellow based on the quality of their research proposal.

Significance of the Study
Assesses the importance, relevance, and potential contribution of the study to the field of social sciences

Addresses a clearly defined and relevant social problem or gap,
Contributes to theoretical advancement or practical understanding,
Aligns with current social science priorities or emerging trends, and;
Potential for long-term societal, academic, or policy impact.

50%

Practicability and Functionality
Evaluates the feasibility of the study, including methods, timeline, and the potential for real-world application.

Clear and achievable research objectives,
Methodology is appropriate, realistic, and well thought-out,
Timeline and resource allocation are practical and attainable, and;
Potential for findings to inform practice, policy, or further research.

40%

Concept, Writing, and Content
Assesses the clarity, coherence, and intellectual quality of the proposal.

Proposal is well-structured and logically organized
Research questions, objectives, and rationale are clearly articulated
Writing is concise, clear, and demonstrates critical engagement
Appropriate use of academic language, citations, and conceptual frameworks

10%

2. Agreement and Grant Release: The selected fellow will sign a Memorandum of Agreement with PSSC and receive the 1st tranche of the research grant.

3. Research Period: The research will be conducted over a period of one (1) year.

4. Presentation of Findings: The fellow will present their research findings to policymakers and government representatives.

5. Publication: After incorporating feedback and finalizing the study, the research will be prepared for publication.

Expected Output:

Full paper on one PSSC’s Research Agenda
A research article for One Social Science Journal, and
A scientific lecture/validation workshop with invited selected policy makers

Benefits:

Php 300,000 for one fellow
Library space at PSSC

GRANTS

PSSC Fellowship Program for the Social Sciences

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