Centre for Research in the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (CRASSH), University of Cambridge
The Centre for Research in the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (CRASSH) at the University of Cambridge is now accepting applications for the British Academy International Fellowship scheme. This prestigious initiative aims to attract early-career international researchers to the UK to undertake innovative and high-quality research projects. The Fellowship program, running for two years, is designed to support talented individuals in advancing their academic careers and contribute to the creation of a globally connected, mobile research workforce.
The British Academy International Fellowship is an excellent opportunity for emerging scholars from around the world to collaborate with researchers in the UK and gain access to a world-class academic environment. It offers fellows the chance to build their research portfolios, contribute to academic networks, and gain valuable career development opportunities.
Purpose of the British Academy International Fellowship
The British Academy International Fellowship is specifically targeted at emerging researchers in the early stages of their careers. The aim is to facilitate international collaboration, mobility, and the development of a robust and diverse academic community. Fellows are provided with the time and resources necessary to pursue cutting-edge research, while benefiting from the intellectual and professional networks that the UK academic system offers.
The Fellowship supports researchers in a broad range of disciplines within the humanities and social sciences. It offers a platform for fellows to work on innovative research projects that can contribute to advancing knowledge in their respective fields. In addition to fostering academic growth, the Fellowship also encourages career development, equipping scholars with the skills and connections needed to thrive in the competitive academic job market.
Eligibility Criteria for the British Academy International Fellowship
To be considered for the British Academy International Fellowship, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- PhD Requirements
Applicants must have a PhD, or be in the final stages of completing one. For those still finalizing their PhD, the dissertation must be completed and the viva (oral examination) passed before the Fellowship’s start date. Applicants will be required to provide confirmation of the PhD award prior to the final approval of the Fellowship.
- Postdoctoral Experience
Applicants should have no more than seven years of active full-time postdoctoral experience at the time of their application. This experience is calculated from the date of the PhD award, excluding career breaks such as parental leave or time spent outside of academia (e.g., industry work or personal leave). Teaching experience and time spent in non-academic fields, such as industry, will be counted as part of the postdoctoral experience.
- Current Location
Applicants must be based outside the UK at the time of application.
- Citizenship Requirements
Applicants should not hold UK citizenship. The Fellowship is specifically intended for international researchers, and the program encourages diversity and global participation.
- Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in both oral and written English. This is crucial for effective communication within the UK academic community and for the successful completion of research projects.
- Research Proposal
Applicants must submit a well-defined research proposal that is mutually beneficial for both the applicant and a UK-based host researcher. This proposal should demonstrate a clear alignment with the host institution’s research objectives and academic interests. The proposal should detail the scope of the research, expected outcomes, and its potential impact within the chosen academic field.
Application Process for the British Academy International Fellowship
Applications for the British Academy International Fellowship must be submitted in line with the following instructions:
- Required Documents
– CV: A two-page CV that includes the dates of the PhD viva and PhD award. This CV should highlight relevant academic and professional experience, including research, teaching, and any other accomplishments pertinent to the applicant’s career.
– List of Publications: A list of publications not exceeding one page. This list should include any books, journal articles, book chapters, or other publications that are relevant to the applicant’s research area.
– Internal Selection Form: A completed internal selection form, which will provide the University of Cambridge with a comprehensive overview of the applicant’s background and research proposal.
– Referee Details: The name and contact details of one referee who is familiar with the applicant’s research and academic abilities. The referee should be based in the UK and should not be the applicant’s PhD supervisor or mentor. This reference will provide additional insight into the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in the Fellowship.
- Submission
All applications must be submitted via email to Dr. Russell Re Manning, Deputy Centre Administrator, at rrm24@cam.ac.uk. The deadline for internal submission is 12:00 noon BST on Friday, 7 February 2025. This is the internal deadline by which applications will be assessed and selected for final submission to the British Academy.
The British Academy is expected to have its official deadline for applications in mid-March 2025, and applicants must ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted by the internal deadline to allow for a thorough review process.
Selection Process
Once the internal deadline has passed, applications will be reviewed by a panel at the University of Cambridge. The review process will assess the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, the applicant’s academic background, and the alignment of their research with the objectives of the Fellowship. A selection of the strongest applications will then be submitted to the British Academy for final consideration.
Fellowship Benefits
The British Academy International Fellowship offers several benefits to successful applicants:
– Research Funding: Fellows will receive financial support to carry out their research in the UK. This funding is intended to cover living expenses, research costs, and any necessary travel or accommodation.
– Professional Development: The Fellowship provides opportunities for career development, including access to academic networks, conferences, and workshops. Fellows will benefit from exposure to the UK’s academic community, which can help open doors to future collaborations and career opportunities.
– Academic Support: Fellows will receive mentorship and guidance from UK-based researchers, which will support their academic growth and provide a platform for their research to thrive. This collaborative approach enhances the international mobility of researchers and fosters knowledge exchange.
– Global Connections: The Fellowship encourages fellows to build connections within the international academic community. Fellows will have the opportunity to engage with scholars from around the world, contributing to the development of a global research network.
The British Academy International Fellowship 2025-2027 offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers to advance their academic careers and contribute to the development of innovative, high-quality research. By attracting talented international scholars to the UK, this program helps to strengthen global research networks, foster knowledge exchange, and promote career development within the humanities and social sciences.
Researchers who meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about conducting groundbreaking research are encouraged to apply. The Fellowship not only supports the professional growth of individual scholars but also contributes to the broader goal of creating a globally connected, mobile research workforce. If you are an early-career researcher looking to make an impact, the British Academy International Fellowship could be the perfect platform to take your research to the next level.
For further information and to submit your application, please contact Dr. Russell Re Manning at rrm24@cam.ac.uk by the internal deadline of 7 February 2025.
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