What is Impact Lab?

Launched 2018-19, Impact Lab is a co-curricular programme that supports University of Oxford postgraduate students who are committed to having an impact-driven career. Impact Lab is cultivating systems leaders who can lead and sustain change throughout their careers, who are deeply reflective, who work collaboratively across systems, and who can devolve leadership and decision-making to the communities most impacted by unjust and inequitable practices. 

Summia Tora smiling and wearing a red scarf.

Programme aims

The programme aims to: 

  • Provide a deep understanding of the foundations of social impact needed to address complex social and environmental problems;

  • Build a community of practice within the cohort through co-creation and practice-oriented learning; and

  • Explore different pathways, mindsets, and approaches to building an impact career.

Lab components

Leadership retreats

  • Leadership retreats enable students to build leadership skills while developing strong relationships with their peers. Please note that the Leadership Retreat for the Michaelmas cohort with be held on 5-6th October, while other sessions will take space on Tuesday evenings and Friday mornings throughout the term.

Learning modules

  • Learning modules provide opportunities to develop a critical perspective on impact.

Storytelling
  • Storytelling allow students to practice the art of storytelling to shape attitudes towards social change. 
Peer-learning

Peer-learning sessions are a student-led component and allow the cohort to share knowledge and learn from one another. 

Who is Impact Lab for?

Impact Lab is open to postgraduate students across the University of Oxford who:​

  • Demonstrate a commitment to an impact career​;

  • Have three or more years of impact experience;

  • Have a growth mindset (openness to learning); and

  • Demonstrate a commitment to personal and professional development.​

Apply for Impact Lab

Applications for Impact Lab are now open for Michaelmas term 2024. Applications are due by the 26th of August and interviews will take place in early September. Applications for the Hilary Term 2025 will be open in October 2024. If you have any queries about the programme or the application, please contact impactlab@sbs.ox.ac.uk.

Apply

Diversity and inclusion

We are committed to fair, safe, and inclusive programmes and believe that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colours, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability statuses, sexual orientations, and gender identities.