Applied Research Projects (ARPs) are a foundational component of the Geneva Graduate Institute's Interdisciplinary Master in International and Development Studies (MINT).
ARPs offer a unique pedagogical experience in which students work closely with policy-makers, practitioners and leaders in Geneva and beyond to answer some of the most pressing research questions of global concern.
Working collaboratively in small groups, MINT students conduct policy-relevant research with partner organisations, under the academic supervision of an Institute Faculty Lead. Across two semesters, students are expected to elaborate a project Terms of Reference based on the partner’s research proposal, and then to conduct an in-depth literature review and elaborate a relevant research methodology. Students then undertake original research, analyse primary data, write analytical preliminary and final reports, and orally present their research findings.
Teamwork, collaboration, professionalism, effective communication, and problem solving are crucial skills the ARP process aims to strengthen among MINT students.
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PARTNER ORGANISATIONS
ARP Partner organisations are expected to provide guidance and support to students to generate research that is of policy and practical relevance. Applying to serve as an ARP Partner Organisation is a competitive process; successful applicants demonstrate a commitment to supporting students across the project period, including through the provision of technical expertise, supporting students’ professional learning, and helping students connect with other leading experts in the relevant field of practice.
ARP Partner Organisations are expected to:
- provide overall framing of the research project;
- participate in approximately 5 meetings with students across the project period (September-May);
- attend the final presentation (end April or early May);
- provide feedback on and validate students’ deliverables, including the Terms of Reference (October), Inception Report (December) and the Preliminary (April) and Final Outputs (May).
ARP Partners are also expected to adhere to the Geneva Graduate Institute's Code of Conduct and to sign a Charter of Commitments.
The Call for ARP Partner organisations for the 2026-2027 academic year is open from 15 May – 31 July 2026. Should you have any questions about the ARP please reach out to Claudia Seymour, Head of Applied Research Projects and Practice: claudia.seymour@graduateinstitute.ch.
