PEP Network mostly supports research projects led by small teams of developing country researchers, selected through direct calls for proposals, under either one of the four research programs - CBMS, MPIA, PIERI, PMMA. Over the past few years however, PEP has become increasingly active in going beyond its core capacity building activities to support and promote the mobilization of local researchers in key national and international research initiatives.

These special, often large-scale projects – usually focused on emerging development and/or policy issues – are conducted either through joint research initiatives (JRIs) - developed in collaboration with specific donors - or as commissioned studies deputed by international institutions calling on PEP’s extensive experience to provide scientific support and coordinate activities.