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An excerpt from Lorna Lyria's 2025 research project poster

Applications for the 2026 cohort of the Junior Research Associates (JRA) scheme are now open.

Lorna Lyria, an Economics student whose research project poster was shortlisted in 2025, explored the differences in statistical integrity across UK government departments, under the supervision of Professor Catherine Liston-Heyes. She reflects on her experience:

"I joined the JRA project after developing a strong interest in postgraduate research early in my second year and was very impressed by the opportunities the programme offered. The hands-on experience, designing and completing my own study, helped me develop practical research skills, a clearer understanding of my working style, and prepared me for postgraduate research."

Previously shortlisted projects from Business School students have explored topics including supply chain resilience, innovation in the creative economy, social entrepreneurship, and global health partnerships — demonstrating the breadth of research opportunities available.

Current Business School second year undergraduates who are interested in applying should contact Dr Siyang Tian (Siyang.Tian@sussex.ac.uk) by Monday, 2 March.  Students will then be matched with a member of faculty to develop their proposal, by  the final submission deadline Monday 16 March 2026.

About the JRA scheme

The JRA scheme is an eight-week funded summer programme for undergraduates. It gives participants the opportunity to gain hands-on research experience, work closely with academic supervisors, network with other researchers, and develop skills that are highly valued in graduate careers.

Other benefits are:

• workshops on research skills, including an introduction to managing research data, effective literature searching, and an introduction to research study skills
• an introduction to postgraduate study, where you can explore further study after your undergraduate course
• £3,500 research fund
• a research poster workshop
• presentation of your research poster at an exhibition
• an opportunity to be nominated to present at Posters in Parliament in the presence of policymakers at Westminster.

For more information and guidance on how to apply, including frequently asked questions, please visit the JRA webpage.