British Academy International Fellowship 2026-28 in UK | Fully Funded

British Academy International Fellowship 2026-28 is an exceptional opportunity designed to support outstanding early career researchers in taking their first step toward building an independent and internationally connected research career. This prestigious fellowship enables scholars to gain valuable experience across borders, engage with leading UK institutions, and contribute to globally impactful research projects.

Running from 2026 to 2028, the British Academy International Fellowship focuses on attracting and retaining emerging talent in the UK, fostering a dynamic and mobile research workforce. Fellows benefit from career development opportunities, specialized training, and networking initiatives that help establish long-term academic collaborations. The program encourages innovative research while connecting international scholars with the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Research in the Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities (CRASSH), promoting a globally engaged research community.

Benefits 

• The International Fellowships offer support for two years and the award is offered at 80% FEC.
• Applicants may apply for research expenses of up to £12,000 and relocation costs of up to £8,000.
• Applicants will need to justify the level of research expenses and relocation costs requested in their application.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the British Academy International Fellowship 2026-28, you must:

• Have a PhD, or applicants in the final stages of their PhD will be accepted provided that the PhD will be completed (including viva) before the start date of the Fellowship. Confirmation of award of the PhD will be required before any Fellowship award is confirmed.
• Applicants should have no more than seven years of active full time postdoctoral experience at the time of application (discounting career breaks, but including teaching experience and/or time spent in industry).
• Be working outside the UK.
• Not hold UK citizenship.
• Be competent in oral and written English.
• Have a clearly defined and mutually-beneficial research proposal agreed with a UK host researcher.

How to Apply?

• Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria: have (or be close to completing) a PhD, with no more than seven years of postdoctoral experience, and not hold UK citizenship.
• Identify a UK-based faculty member who agrees to act as your sponsor and collaborate on your research proposal.
• Submit an Expression of Interest for English applicants by 5:00 pm BST on Monday 5 January 2026. Include your sponsor’s name and a short project description.
• Prepare your full internal application for the Faculty by 12:00 noon BST on Monday 26 January 2026, including:
• A two-page CV with PhD viva and award dates
• Research proposal: title and draft proposal
• A list of publications (maximum one side)
• Letter of support from your UK faculty sponsor
• The Faculty will assess applications and select candidates for onward submission to the British Academy. The funder’s likely deadline is mid-March 2026, and you will be informed in good time if your application is supported

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The British Academy International Fellowship 2026-28 supports postdoctoral researchers with mentoring, career development, and global collaboration. Eligibility requires a PhD, UK sponsor, and internal submission by January deadlines.