FCDO Research Advisory Group 2026: Part-Time Remote Opportunity for Senior Global Research and Policy Experts

Overview

The FCDO Research Advisory Group (RAG) is looking for senior experts to give independent scientific and research advice to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The Group was set up in 2022 to provide strategic guidance, rapid insight and independent challenge on FCDO's research funding portfolio, and supports the FCDO Chief Scientific Adviser, who also directs the Research and Evidence Division. Expertise sought covers health, agriculture, climate, energy, water, economic growth, humanitarian affairs, education, governance, conflict, social development, data for development, big data, artificial intelligence and innovation.

Members are appointed in a personal capacity as independent experts, not as representatives of an employer, institution or interest group. They advise on research priorities and the link to the wider UK science base, how evidence informs policy, the effectiveness and value for money of research programmes, gaps and balance in the portfolio, horizon scanning and scenario planning, connections to specialist expertise, and scientific inputs to emergency response and disaster preparedness.

What you get

The role is part-time, remote and unremunerated. FCDO reimburses reasonable economy travel and incidental expenses. The appointment lasts three years and is renewable once, for a maximum of two terms, or up to six years.

Requirements

The role suits people with substantial expertise in the fields above who can engage with issues beyond their own discipline and think strategically at portfolio level. The listing gives no further formal qualifications.

How to apply

The text provided does not describe application steps or a deadline. Applicants should consult the official FCDO announcement.

Key dates

Members attend four meetings a year of about 2.5 to 3 hours each, with 2 to 3 hours of reading and preparation per meeting. Papers circulate about a week ahead, and meeting dates are confirmed as early as possible. There may be occasional extra meetings or requests for expert input between sessions.