Privacy Policy

Last updated:

Meridian Scholars Network Ltd ("we", "us", "our") operates meridianscholars.website (the "Site") and provides membership programs, mentorship matching, research circles, fellowship listings, and micro‑grant opportunities (collectively, the "Services"). This Privacy Policy explains how we handle personal data when you use our Site and Services.

1. Data we collect

• Account & application data: name, email, academic interests, short answers, CV links you choose to share.
• Operational data: cohort assignments, mentor notes, scheduling preferences, grant submissions.
• Usage data: IP address, device info, pages viewed, and cookies/analytics events.
• Communications: emails and messages you send to us or to mentors via our tools.

2. How we use data

• Provide and improve the Services, including cohort matching and fellowship discovery.
• Communicate with you about your account, deadlines, updates, and changes to our policies.
• Personalize content (e.g., recommended fellowships or research circles).
• Maintain security, prevent abuse, and comply with legal obligations.

3. Legal bases

Where applicable (e.g., the UK and EEA), we process personal data under one or more of the following legal bases: contract performance, legitimate interests (e.g., running and securing the Services), consent (where required), and legal compliance.

4. Sharing

We may share limited data with:

• Mentors and peer members within your cohort (e.g., your name and interests).
• Vendors acting as processors (hosting, analytics, email, scheduling) under data processing terms.
• When required by law or to protect rights, safety, and security.

5. International transfers

Your data may be transferred and processed outside your country. Where required, we use appropriate safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses.

6. Retention

We keep personal data only as long as necessary for the purposes described above or as required by law. You may request deletion of your account; we will retain only what we must for compliance or legitimate interests.

7. Your rights

Depending on your location, you may have rights to access, correct, delete, port, or object to processing of your personal data. To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@meridianscholars.website.

8. Cookies & analytics

We use cookies and similar technologies to understand Site usage and improve features. You can control cookies via your browser settings. Some features may not work with cookies disabled.

9. Children

Our Services are intended for individuals aged 16 and over. If you believe a child has provided us data, contact us and we will take appropriate steps.

10. Contact

We may update this policy from time to time. We will post the new version here and update the date above.