The Research Fellowship in African Studies 2026 at the University of Oxford offers a prestigious, fully funded two-year position for early-career scholars. This opportunity, based at the African Studies Centre within the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies, enables researchers to pursue an independent and ambitious programme of advanced research on the theme of ‘Africa and the World’.
The University of Oxford is a world-leading academic institution, and the African Studies Centre is one of its premier hubs for cutting-edge scholarship. The fellowship provides a platform to launch an international academic career under the supervision of Professor Rita Abrahamsen, with access to Oxford’s exceptional research resources and global networks.
Research Fellowship in African Studies Benefits
- Grade 7 salary: £39,424 – £47,779 per annum
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays)
- Option to purchase up to 10 extra days of leave
- Generous family leave scheme: up to 26 weeks full-pay maternity/adoption leave, 12 weeks full-pay paternity/partner leave
- Excellent contributory pension scheme
- Affordable commuting options: cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, season ticket loans
- Access to social, cultural, and sports clubs
Research Fellowship in African Studies Eligibility Criteria
- Hold or be close to completion of a relevant doctorate by the start of employment
- Doctorate completion no earlier than three years before 1st January 2026
- Excellent communication skills, including writing for publication
- Ability to present research papers at academic seminars and conferences
- Commitment to publishing high-quality research in peer-reviewed international journals and presses
- Commitment to teaching and supervising postgraduate students
- Applications welcome from all academic fields
- Experience in delivering teaching and thesis supervision is welcomed
- Experience in independently leading a research programme is welcomed
- Experience in working collaboratively with researchers is welcomed
How to Apply?
- Apply via Oxford University’s website by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ button
- Upload a CV
- Upload a supporting statement explaining how you meet each selection criterion
- Upload a short statement of your proposed research project
- Refer to the attached job description for further details
- Do not submit any published work at this stage
- For initial queries, contact the HR Office at [email protected]
- For non-administrative queries, contact Professor Rita Abrahamsen at [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in African Studies at the University of Oxford. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply, based on the official job posting.
What is the start date for the Research Fellowship?
The start date is 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is a two-year fixed-term contract.
What is the application deadline?
The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon (UK time) on Monday 20th April 2026.
What are the essential eligibility criteria?
Candidates must hold or be close to completing a relevant doctorate by the start date, with completion no earlier than three years before 1st January 2026. They must demonstrate excellent communication and publication skills, and a commitment to teaching and supervising postgraduate students.
What is the salary and funding?
The Research Fellowship is a Grade 7 position with a salary range of £39,424 – £47,779 per annum. It is a full-time, fully funded position with additional benefits including generous leave and a pension scheme.
What is the research theme?
The research should fall within the broad thematic of ‘Africa and the World’ or Africa in the contemporary global order, situating Africa within wider global, comparative, and transnational processes.
Who will supervise the fellow?
The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Rita Abrahamsen, the Chair of African Studies at the African Studies Centre.
What are the teaching responsibilities?
The fellow will contribute to teaching by offering an option course aligned with their expertise and will supervise master’s dissertations on the MSc in African Studies.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted via Oxford University’s website. You must upload a CV, a supporting statement addressing the selection criteria, and a short statement of your proposed research project.
Are there any specific application instructions?
Candidates are requested not to submit any published work at the application stage. The job description provides further details on selection criteria.
Is visa support available?
Yes, the successful candidate will be offered visa application support, if required, to apply to appropriate UK sponsorship schemes.
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