Sorbonne University: Participatory Science Projects Funding & Support

Sorbonne Université’s Science Ensemble network has launched a funding initiative to support participatory science and research projects within the Alliance Sorbonne Université. Applications for the funding, designed to address the specific needs of these projects, are being accepted through the Science Ensemble portal until April 3, 2026.

The Science Ensemble network, established in November 2019, aims to increase the visibility and development of participatory science initiatives across the Alliance, which includes Sorbonne University, the Muséum national d’histoire naturelle and several other institutions, as well as research organizations like CNRS and Inserm. The network functions as a platform to connect project leaders and participants, and to share resources related to participatory science.

The new funding initiative will provide financial support for a range of project needs, including software development, graphic design, tools to facilitate participation, and the organization of meetings with volunteers and stakeholders. Successful applicants will be required to participate in Science Ensemble activities, submit a project description to the Science Ensemble portal, and present their results at a network workshop scheduled for January or February 2027.

According to information published by Sorbonne Université, Science Ensemble currently supports over 45 participatory science and research projects spanning disciplines such as musicology, linguistics, ecology, epidemiology, history, archaeology, and astronomy. These projects often involve partnerships with approximately one hundred associations and local authorities.

The Alliance Sorbonne Université was formed in 2018 and is the recipient of funding from the Idex “Sorbonne University for Education and Research” initiative, as well as the Programme Investissement d’Avenir 3. These funds support cross-disciplinary projects, international partnerships, and the digital transformation of knowledge dissemination.

Applicants must create an account on the Science Ensemble portal to submit their proposals. Awardees will also be expected to adhere to communication requirements related to the SOUND project, as well as guidelines for project evaluation and reporting.