Catalysing impact through social sciences innovation
Innovation
What is social sciences innovation?
In the social sciences, innovation can take many forms – from action research that transforms organisations and communities, to applying rigorous research methods to shape emerging policies or technologies in ways that help people flourish. Social sciences innovation creates both social and economic value, helping to tackle the grand challenges of our time, like addressing inequality, climate change, or public health crises.
For researchers, innovation is now a valuable and integral part of the research life cycle. By collaborating to exchange expertise, knowledge and insights, social scientists can bolster their research capacity, reduce their dependence on grants, and deliver real-world solutions.
At the University of Oxford, we’re fostering an environment where innovation to create new ways of thinking and acting is encouraged and valued.
What can innovation in the social sciences look like?
Solving societal challenges with practical solutions: Tackling issues like inequality, sustainability and public health
Collaborative, systems-based research: Taking a holistic approach and breaking down silos to address complex problems
Real-world testing: Piloting and evaluating ideas from research in businesses and communities
People-centred research: Integrating social sciences into the development of socially responsible policies and technologies
Co-production: Partnering directly with communities and end users to shape research
Strengthening external partnerships: Building connections to catalyse and amplify impact from research
Independent funding: Raising funds from alternative sources to sustain research
Innovation stories
Are you a researcher looking for inspiration to incorporate innovation into your own research? Discover the stories of four social scientists whose innovation has introduced new ideas into society, and who are leading innovative partnerships that have sparked meaningful change, in our videos below:
Do you have a big idea to bring to life?
Where to find support
The Division's Research, Impact & Engagement (RIE) Team provides a range of support and initiatives to help researchers explore opportunities to generate scalable and sustainable real-world impact from their research, including:
- Guidance on generating real-world impact
- Access to funding and partnership opportunities
- Initiatives to help you scale your research innovations