M4C Research Development Fund (RDF) and Engagement Fund (EF)

M4C-funded PGRs and M4C supervisors should refer to the Additional Funding Page on the VPP for information about using RDF and EF funding.

The information covers: how to apply for EF and RDF money, what this money can be used for, and specific details related to expenditure such as travel and accommodation. It includes comprehensive guidance notes on applying and on the conditions for using RDF/EF money.

*Latest updates on EF/RDF applications have been announced by the central M4C team in May 2024.*

The changes are:

1. Funding for participation at a conference is now supported by the Engagement Fund, to ensure that there is sufficient budget in the Research Development Fund to support essential research and fieldwork.
2. We have had to limit the number across the length of your PhD to ensure that all M4C students have the opportunity to participate in a conference. All students will be limited to funding for participation at two conferences over the remaining length of their award. This change is effective for conferences occurring from August onwards. 

Applying for RDF/EF

To apply, you must fill in the application form available on the VPP.

Please ensure that your RDF/EF applications adhere to both the M4C VPP guidance and the Warwick University expenses guidance.

Note: Any travel and accommodation costs with a combined total of £1,000 or more must be booked through Key Travel. Any travel outside European countries must be booked by Key Travel regardless of the cost.

To help with your application, we have created an RDF-EF checklistLink opens in a new window. Please download this checklist, and submit it with your application.

Using RDF/EF

In terms of how RDF and EF money is dealt with at Warwick once it has been awarded, please see below:

• M4C Funding and Expenses - Operating Procedure(Staff)

• M4C Funding and Expenses - Guidance for PGRs

Enquiries to: M4C@warwick.ac.uk

RDF/EF deadlines

*Note earlier internal deadline will be set

Overseas Travel

If you are travelling abroad as part of your research, you will need to make sure you have followed relevant guidance. Some countries require approval to travel from the Insurance Services Department and/or FinCompliance, details found here Overseas Business Travel Insurance (warwick.ac.uk).

The travel policy is renewed every year and detail on business travel arrangements can also be found at the link above.

Before you travel, please download the Solace app found here Login & Register (solacesecure.com)(email and policy number 100735754GPA required to register free of charge).

You can also sign up for alerts from the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)and Amadeus (via Key Travel) relevant for the country or countries you are travelling to.

Additionally, you may need to complete a travel risk assessment before travel arrangements are booked.