Can I apply if my research addresses more than one theme?

Yes. Applicants may address one or more fellowship themes if this is relevant. The application should explain the primary theme and any secondary themes. Proposals do not need to address all three themes.

Is play required as part of the research proposal?

No. Applicants may include play where it is relevant to their research question, but it is optional and not a condition of eligibility.

Can applicants from any country apply?

Yes, applicants from any country are welcome to apply, with the exception of countries subject to EU or US sanctions. If your country is not on either sanctions list, you are eligible to apply regardless of your location.

Are career breaks considered as part of the ten-year post-PhD requirement?

Applicants may describe career interruptions such as parental leave, caregiving, illness, displacement, or other circumstances that affected research productivity or timing.

Do I need to be employed by a university or research institute?

Yes. Applicants must be employed at a university or research institute. Funds will be awarded to and administered by the fellow’s institution.

Can teams apply?

No. The fellowship is awarded to an individual researcher.

Can the fellow move institutions during the fellowship?

Yes, subject to approval and confirmation that the new institution can administer the award.

Is a budget required at the first stage?

Yes.

How will career breaks be considered?

The program will take account of documented career interruptions, including parental leave, caregiving responsibilities, illness, displacement, and other circumstances affecting research productivity.

Will applicants receive feedback?

Due to the expected volume of applications, individual feedback may only be available to applicants who reach the final stage.

Can I use the LEGO Foundation Fellowship to extend funding for an existing project?

Yes.

Can I accept funding from other sources for the same project?

Yes.

Does the program offer support for visas or IRB clearances?

Visas costs for travel to fellowship annual meetings and IRB clearances can be included in the proposed budget. The LEGO Foundation will not be able to provide any logistical support for obtaining travel visas or IRB clearances.