The British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships offer a great chance for early-career researchers. These fellowships take place at the University of Edinburgh and start in January 2027. They support researchers from specific countries with a full year of funding and resources.
Fellowship Overview
This program comes from a partnership between the British Council and the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH) at the University of Edinburgh. It runs for three years, from 2025 to 2027. Fellows spend the first ten months at IASH in Edinburgh. Then, they have up to two months back in their home countries to share knowledge and results with the British Council’s help. The deadline to apply is July 31, 2026.
Key Benefits
Fellows receive strong support during their time in the program. They get a bursary of ÂŁ2,500 each month for all 12 months. This covers living costs while they focus on research. They also have a dedicated office, a University email address, and full library access.
Other perks include a mentor from the University whose expertise matches the fellow’s topic. Fellows join weekly lunches to connect with others. They can attend work-in-progress seminars to share ideas. The Institute offers events, workshops, and colloquia where fellows can take part or even lead sessions.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must live in an ODA-recipient country where the British Council works. They need a PhD completed within the last seven years. Time off for things like parental leave does not count toward that limit. Applicants should explain any breaks in their academic work.
Research must link to British Council priorities in arts, education, and English language. Topics can also cover international relations, soft power, development, peace building, cultural relations, or diplomacy. You cannot have a permanent university job or a past IASH fellowship. Short-term or temporary roles are fine.
How Applications Are Reviewed
A panel from the University of Edinburgh and British Council checks each application. They look for a strong background that fits the program’s themes. The research proposal must help meet British Council goals. Judges value experience in sharing research with non-academic groups, like policymakers or artists.
They also check for plans to share knowledge during and after the fellowship. This includes using networks built in Edinburgh.
Application Steps
Start with the online form at IASH application page. Submit your CV, a research proposal, and a cover letter. The letter should explain how your work supports the British Council aims. Provide two to three references. Referees send them directly to the IASH Director at [email protected] by July 31, 2026.
One referee must confirm your PhD defense and final exam. They should comment on your proposal and skills. Late references mean your application cannot move forward. For full details, check the British Council fellowships page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for the fellowships?
The deadline is July 31, 2026. Submit all materials by then to be considered.
Who is eligible to apply?
You need a PhD completed in the last seven years from an ODA-recipient country where the British Council works. Research must link to their priorities in arts, education, or English.
What benefits do fellows receive?
Fellows get ÂŁ2,500 per month for 12 months, a dedicated office, library access, a mentor, and chances to join events and seminars.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Use the online form on the IASH website. Submit your CV, research proposal, cover letter, and get 2-3 references sent directly to [email protected].
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