Deadline: Apply by July 28, 2025
Description
The British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships offer early-career scholars from Global South nations a 12-month immersive experience at the University of Edinburgh’s Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH). Celebrating the British Council’s legacy of fostering global trust, this fellowship supports research aligned with arts, education, and cultural diplomacy. Fellows spend ten months in Edinburgh developing projects that advance Official Development Assistance (ODA) goals, followed by two months in their home countries for knowledge exchange with British Council networks. This initiative bridges academic rigor and real-world impact, empowering researchers to contribute to peace-building and international development.
Eligibility
This fellowship targets postdoctoral researchers based in ODA-recipient countries where the British Council operates (full list includes Albania, India, Kenya, Ukraine, and 50+ others). Applicants must hold a doctorate awarded within the last seven years (2018–2025), accounting for career breaks such as parental leave. Candidates should not have held permanent university positions or prior IASH fellowships. Research proposals must align with the British Council’s strategic pillars—arts, education, English language, or cross-cutting themes like cultural diplomacy—and demonstrate relevance to ODA policy/practice in the applicant’s home region.
Benefits
Fellows receive comprehensive support:
- Financial Security: A monthly bursary of £2,500 for 12 months, covering living costs and research expenses.
- Academic Resources: Dedicated office space, University of Edinburgh library access, and mentorship from faculty experts.
- Professional Development: Participation in IASH’s scholarly community, including seminars, workshops, and networking events.
- Global Engagement: Travel funding for UK-based activities and collaboration with British Council offices worldwide.
- Knowledge Exchange: Structured support to disseminate research in home countries, amplifying local impact.
How to Apply
- Prepare Documents: Draft a research proposal (aligned with British Council objectives), CV, cover letter, and arrange 2–3 confidential references.
- Submit Online: Complete the application via the IASH Portal by 23:59 UK time on July 28, 2025.
- Include References: Ensure referees email recommendations to iash@ed.ac.uk by the deadline.
- Await Decision: Selected fellows will be notified by September 2025 for a January 2026 start.
Note: Applications require evidence of contact with University of Edinburgh researchers and a plan for ODA-relevant outputs.
Contact Information
For queries, email researchglobal@britishcouncil.org
For more information, visit the official website.
Together for a Better Tomorrow
