Human and Social Science Research Capability (HSSRC)

The Human Social Science Research Capability (HSSRC) framework was launched in March 2019 with BAE Systems as its prime contractor.

BAE Systems will lead, manage and deliver externally provided human, behavioural and social sciences research for the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), MOD and Other Government Departments (OGDs).

Background and Objectives

The Human and Social Science Research Capability (HSSRC) framework was launched in March 2019 with BAE Systems as its prime contractor. BAE Systems will lead, manage and deliver externally provided human, behavioural and social sciences research for the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), MOD and Other Government Departments (OGDs).

The framework aims to deliver agile, timely and effective human science research and advice to shape defence and security policy and doctrine, underpin procurement decisions and improve operational capability.

People are a critical component of the UK’s Defence and Security capability. A committed professional workforce is required to deliver success in an increasingly complex and connected environment. The effectiveness and efficiency of the human element is key. Defence and Security capability will be secured by maximising human performance; effectively integrating automation opportunities; and finding innovative ways to attract and retain skilled people. The future environment will present different physical and psychological demands which will need to be understood and managed. Analysis of human behaviour and communications, including across social networks will be increasingly important to support understanding of the information space.

Research Themes

Coherent, high-quality, cutting–edge research will be delivered across the following six research themes:
• Personnel
• Training and Education
• Humans in Systems
• Human Performance
• Understanding and Influencing Human Behaviour
• Health, Wellbeing and Enhancing Medical Systems and Capabilities

Research Tasks and Requirements

The HSSRC framework will build an open network of suppliers from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Universities and Industry. Some tasks will be speculative, strategic and future-focused and others applied, addressing specific near-term questions.

Members of the HSSRC supplier network will have visibility of the competitive task Statements of Requirements (SoRs) and will be eligible to submit proposals as part of these competitions.

Become a HSSRC supplier

We invite you to register your interest in receiving further information on the new HSSRC supplier network by contacting hssrc@baesystems.com.

Joining instructions are now available, with competitions starting from the middle of the year.