British Academy – Postdoctoral Fellowships (Humanities and Social Sciences)

About Organization

The British Academy is the UK’s national academy for the humanities and social sciences. Established to promote excellence in research and scholarship, the Academy supports researchers at all career stages, fosters international collaboration, and provides independent expertise to inform public policy. Its fellowship schemes are internationally recognized for nurturing the next generation of academic leaders.

About Post

The Postdoctoral Fellowship scheme provides early-career researchers with the opportunity to undertake independent research in any area of the humanities or social sciences. Fellows are expected to strengthen their academic profile, produce significant publications, and contribute to the intellectual life of their host institution. The fellowship is designed to support researchers in establishing themselves as independent scholars and enhancing their prospects for permanent academic appointments.

Recruitment Overview Table

• Applicants must be within three years of completing their PhD at the time of application • Research must fall within the humanities or social sciences • Applicants must not hold a permanent academic post • UK and international applicants eligible, provided they have a UK host institution

Experience Requirements

• Strong academic record with evidence of research excellence • Potential to produce significant publications during the fellowship • Ability to contribute to teaching and academic life of the host institution • Commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and dissemination of research findings

Salary/Funding

The fellowship provides salary support for three years, plus research expenses. Funding covers salary, research costs, and institutional overheads, ensuring fellows have the resources to pursue independent projects.

Selection Process

• Applications submitted via the British Academy’s online portal • Assessment based on academic merit, research proposal quality, and potential impact • Referee reports required to support applications • Final selection by the Academy’s fellowship committee

Important Dates

• Annual call opens mid-year (July) • Application deadline typically in early autumn (September/October) • Fellowship start date: the following academic year

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the British Academy’s funding portal. Required documents include CV, research proposal, supporting statements, and referee reports. Applicants should ensure they meet eligibility criteria and secure institutional support before submission.

Who Can Apply

Early-career researchers in the humanities and social sciences, within three years of PhD completion, seeking to establish themselves as independent scholars.

Why Apply

This fellowship offers a career-defining opportunity to conduct independent research, publish significant work, and build an academic profile. Fellows benefit from mentorship, access to world-class resources, and integration into the UK’s vibrant academic community.

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https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/funding/schemes/postdoctoral-fellowships/