British Academy International Fellowship 2026: Fully Funded 2-Year Research Role in UK

The British Academy has announced the timeline for its prestigious International Fellowship Programme 2026-28. This is an exceptional opportunity for outstanding early-career researchers from outside the UK to work at a UK host institution for two years.

This fellowship is fully funded and focuses on attracting top global talent to the UK. Selected fellows will receive a salary, research expenses up to £12,000, and relocation support. If you are a postdoctoral researcher looking to establish an independent career in the UK, you need to start your application now. The internal deadline for expressions of interest at institutions like the University of Cambridge is 5 January 2026.

Fellowship Overview & Key Details

What Does the Fellowship Cover?

The British Academy provides comprehensive support to ensure fellows can focus entirely on their research. Salary: The award is offered at 80% Full Economic Costing (FEC), covering your salary for two years. Research Expenses: You can apply for up to £12,000 for research-related costs. Relocation: A generous allowance of up to £8,000 is available to help you move to the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

This program is strictly for researchers currently working outside the UK. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:

• Education: You must have a PhD, or be in the final stages of your PhD (must be completed before the fellowship starts).
• Experience: You should have no more than 7 years of full-time postdoctoral experience.
• Citizenship: You must NOT hold UK citizenship.
• Location: You must be currently working outside the UK.
• Sponsor: You need a clearly defined research proposal agreed upon with a UK host researcher.

Application Process (University of Cambridge Route)

Applications for this fellowship usually go through a host institution first. For example, if you are applying through the University of Cambridge (English Faculty), the process is as follows:

1. Find a Sponsor: Identify a UK-based faculty member willing to act as your sponsor and collaborate on your proposal.
2. Expression of Interest (Deadline: Jan 5, 2026): Submit your sponsor's name and a short project description to the faculty.
3. Internal Application (Deadline: Jan 26, 2026): If shortlisted, you will submit a full internal application including your CV, research proposal, and publication list.
4. Final Submission: Selected candidates will be endorsed to submit their application to the British Academy by the funder's deadline (likely mid-March 2026).

How to Apply

Your first step is to contact a potential mentor at a UK university. Do not wait until the last minute, as internal university deadlines (like Cambridge's on Jan 5) are much earlier than the British Academy's final deadline.

Official Application Link: Click Here for Cambridge English Faculty Guidance