Frances Burstow

Deputy Director of Skills and Methods

Frances leads the Economic and Social Research Council’s (ESRC) investment and policies in the area of researcher skills development and methodological development and innovation. This includes the ESRC’s Doctoral Training Network, support for early career researchers and major research methods investments. Frances also leads on equality, diversity and inclusion within ESRC.

Her role involves engaging and collaborating with a wide variety of stakeholders and Frances has a wealth of experience of working in partnership with UK and international research funders including government departments, as well as other UK Research and Innovation councils.

Frances joined the ESRC in 2004 and has worked in a variety of roles since then, including strategic lead for longitudinal studies and head of research grants and policy.

Prior to joining the Research Councils, Frances worked in local government. She holds a degree in Politics from Lancaster University and Master’s degree in Political Communication from the University of Liverpool.

Last updated: 31 March 2022

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