British Academy Postdoctoral Fellowships

A prestigious three-year award for outstanding early-career researchers in the Humanities and Social Sciences. The fellowship provides the time and resources to build a strong academic profile, publish significant work, and enhance prospects for a permanent academic position.

Duration & Timeline

• Fellowship lasts 3 years, beginning in Autumn 2026.
• Applications open 2 July 2025.
• Deadline: 1 October 2025 (5pm BST).

Eligibility

• Open to early-career researchers who completed their viva between 1 April 2023 and 1 April 2026 (with some exceptions for personal circumstances).
• Applicants must hold a doctorate (or equivalent) and be hosted by a UK-based institution or recognised research body.
• Open to British citizens, EEA nationals, or those with a UK PhD, as well as applicants with strong associations to UK academia.

Funding & Support

• Full funding for 3 years under the Full Economic Costing framework, covering 80% of salary plus direct and indirect costs.
• Research expenses up to £6,000 across the duration of the fellowship.

Purpose & Expectations

• Produce a major piece of publishable research.
• Gain valuable teaching experience (up to 5 hours per week).
• Engage actively in academic communities, seminars, networks, and collaborations.