Who we are and what we do
The Daphne Jackson Trust runs a returners scheme to help scientists, engineers and technologists who have been disadvantaged by having a career break.
These people have had a huge amount of investment spent in their education and training as SET professionals. Work life balance is a key issue in our society and many more people are taking career breaks than previously, for reasons of family and bringing up children, relocating with a partner, illness, looking after elderly relatives, disabled family members, etc. The problem for highly qualified SET professionals is that their field has rapidly moved on and they need to update skills or retrain to return at the appropriate level. Thus, without our help, their talents, plus the money, time and effort spent in their training is completely wasted.
If we keep losing SET professionals there will be huge gaps in the skills base and UK industry will not be competitive with the rest of the world. The Daphne Jackson Trust is continually working to address the problem and make everyone aware of the importance of returning SET professionals to their full potential in research careers.
The Daphne Jackson Trust normally offers two year part-time paid Fellowships. Fellows carry out a supervised research project and a training programme at a UK University or industrial R&D laboratory. Fellows are offered support, guidance and mentoring throughout the application process and Fellowship. The Trust does not guarantee employment, however, it removes the disadvantage of a career break and on completion Fellows are able to compete for employment with their peers on a level playing field.
Applicants have to be UK residents and intend to stay in the UK. Applicants must have a first degree in a SET discipline and at least three years work experience before a career break. A great many Daphne Jackson Fellows have PhDs and research experience. Please see the eligibility criteria under Fellowships for more information. The application process is extensive and can take many months. Each case is treated individually and Fellows are selected on their potential to return to a successful career. To successfully complete a Fellowship requires dedication, commitment and perseverance on the part of the Fellow and a lot of time, help, mentoring and support from Trust staff.