Laidlaw Foundation
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is partnering with the Laidlaw Foundation to annually offer 25 exceptional undergraduate students a place on the Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme, designed to develop a new generation of leaders who are skilled researchers, embrace data-driven decision making and believe it is a moral imperative to act with integrity.
Successful applicants will join a community of 1000+ Laidlaw Scholars from Ivy League and Russell Group universities globally through the Laidlaw Scholars Network - an online platform where students can showcase their achievements, collaborate with international peers, and ‘pay forward’ their expertise.
The Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme takes place over the first two years of scholars’ undergraduate degree. It is fully funded, and each year has a specific focus. Open to all first-year undergraduate students from across all departments and disciplines at LSE, Laidlaw Scholars will complete a six-week immersive Leadership-in-Action project in their first year. This work-based learning placement will allow scholars to gain valuable hands-on experience, develop leadership skills beyond theoretical studies in the classroom, and create positive impact for communities in need.
This is followed by a six-week interdisciplinary group research project in their second year, which explores a specific aspect of leadership. In collaboration with a supervisor, who will provide support to ensure academic rigour, scholars will gain first-hand research experience while deepening their knowledge and reflection in the field of leadership. Working with other Laidlaw Scholars, they will also develop their ability to work in teams towards a shared goal.
Baroness Minouche Shafik, Director of LSE, said: “One of LSE's main functions is to train tomorrow’s independent thinkers, critical investigators, and inspirational leaders. This partnership with the Laidlaw Foundation will present new opportunities for our students to grow into those leaders through first-hand research experience and personal development.”
Susanna V. Kempe, CEO of the Laidlaw Foundation, commented: “LSE’s focus on intellectual rigour and evidence, combined with a global outlook, makes it the perfect partner for the Laidlaw Foundation as we continue to grow our network of Laidlaw Scholars at the world’s top universities; investing in a next generation of diverse leaders who believe in evidence-based truths and the imperative to lead with integrity.”
More information about the programme and the application process can be found here.