Oxford SDG Impact Lab

Founded in 2021, the SDG Impact Lab was built on the conviction that Oxford’s graduate students have the potential to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and lead transformative change on both a local and global scale.

The Lab’s unique curriculum and programme integrates theory, ethics and practical skills, and is designed to equip students to lead transformative and sustainable change.

It enables students, recruited as Lab Fellows, to work with businesses and non-academic organisations to develop innovative, research-based solutions to the mounting environmental and social challenges facing the world today. Our Lab Fellows test and translate creative ideas into actionable proposals that have real, measurable impact.

The Lab is led by Alexander Betts (ODID) and Edward Brooks (DPIR).

For students

The Oxford SDG Impact Lab Fellowships offer graduate students the chance to tackle real-world challenges aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Fellows complete an eight-week Masterclass Series and selected Fellows then join the Partner Project Programme, collaborating with businesses and community partners, potentially through a 2-6 week summer placement with a stipend.

The Oxford Laidlaw Scholars Programme is an 18-month programme offering first-year undergraduates hands-on project experience, leadership workshops, and collaboration on impactful local and global initiatives, with a stipend provided. Scholars join an Oxford group leadership retreat in Year 1, and in Year 2, attend the Laidlaw International Scholars Conference and complete a global Leadership in Action project.

For partners

The SDG Impact Lab collaborates with external partners to develop innovative, research-based solutions that address organisational challenges and advance the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Our Lab Fellows—exceptional graduate students from the University of Oxford—are trained to work with businesses, public bodies, and social enterprises. They bring their research expertise to test and translate creative ideas into actionable strategies with measurable impact.

Further information

Website: https://www.sdglab.uk

Email: sdgimpactlab@qeh.ox.ac.uk