British Academy – International Fellowships Programme 2025
This programme provides support for outstanding early-career researchers to make a first step towards developing an independent research career through gaining experience across international borders. Each award is expected to involve a specific and protected research focus with the award-holder undertaking high-quality, original research.
Purpose of the fellowship
The International Fellowships programme attracts the most promising early-career post-doctoral researchers in the humanities and social sciences from around the world. The fellowships enable researchers to work for two years at a UK research institution with the aim of fostering long-term international collaborations.
The overarching aim of the International Fellowships programme is to attract and retain emerging talent in the UK and build a globally connected, mobile research and innovation workforce. The objectives are to:
- Attract talented international early-career researchers to establish and conduct their research in the UK
- Support early-career researchers to pursue high-quality and innovative lines of research
- Provide opportunities to acquire and transfer new skills and knowledge through training and career development
- Foster long-term relationships through networking opportunities and the International Fellowships alumni programme
To apply through the British Academy, applicants should be intending to work in any aspect of the humanities or the social sciences. For research in natural sciences, applicants should apply through the Royal Society.
Eligibility requirements
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree with no more than seven years active full-time postdoctoral experience or be in the final stage of their PhD provided that it will be completed (including viva) before the start date of the fellowship award (or have equivalent research experience). Additionally, applicants must be working outside the UK and not hold UK citizenship at the time of application. For further information and a full list of eligibility criteria, please consult the scheme notes guidance.
Duration and value of award
International Fellowships are expected to run for two years each from a starting date to be agreed with the British Academy. The starting date must not be before 1 Oct 2025.
Awards are offered at 80 per cent FEC (Full Economic Costing). Applicants may apply for research expenses of up to £12,000 and relocation costs of up to £8000. Applicants will need to justify the level of research expenses and relocation costs requested in their application.
Application process
Applications must be submitted online using the British Academy’s Grant Management System, Flexi-Grant®.
Application and referee statements deadline and current UK host institution approval deadline: Tuesday 18 March 2025 (17:00 GMT).
Earliest start date for research: 1 October 2025.
Contact details
If you have any questions, please contact the International Team:
overseas@thebritishacademy.ac.uk.