British Academy randomisation trial yields ‘promising’ results

Underrepresented groups selected at higher rates than in previous grant cycles, academy says

The British Academy has reported “promising” results from the first year of trialling partial randomisation of grant awards.

Using the system, applicants self-identifying as Black, Asian or other ethnicity won over 27 per cent of the grants, up from 18 per cent in the previous round, the academy announced on 6 September. Candidates from Northern Ireland and Scotland were also more successful.