Apply for the 2025 International Fellowships: A Unique Opportunity for Early-Career Researchers

EugenJanuary 26, 2025

3 minutes read

Are you an early-career researcher seeking to elevate your academic journey? Look no further! The British Academy and the Royal Society are excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 International Fellowships Programme. This prestigious program offers a remarkable opportunity to conduct high-quality, original research for two years at a UK institution and provides generous funding to support your research activities and relocation.

Programme Overview

The International Fellowships Programme is designed to empower outstanding early-career researchers by providing them with the resources needed to build a successful independent research career. Through this initiative, awardees will gain invaluable international experience that will not only enhance their research capabilities but also contribute to the development of a globally connected, mobile research and innovation workforce. Successful applicants will embark on a research journey that fosters academic collaboration and intercultural exchange.

Funding Highlights:

Research expenses of up to £12,000.
Relocation costs of up to £8,000.
Awarded funding provided at 80% of the Full Economic Cost (FEC).

Key Dates

Scheme Opens: 21 January 2025
Application Deadline: 18 March 2025, 17:00 GMT
Earliest Start Date for Fellowship: 1 October 2025

Aims of the Programme

The primary goal of the International Fellowships Programme is to attract and retain emerging talent in the UK while contributing towards the cultivation of a dynamic and diverse research community. The key objectives of the program include:

Attract Talented Researchers: Bringing skilled international early-career researchers to the UK to conduct impactful research.
Support High-Quality Research: Facilitating the pursuit of innovative, original projects that advance knowledge across various disciplines.
Building Global Networks: Promoting international collaboration and connections that enhance the research ecosystem.

Eligibility Requirements

To ensure that the fellowship is awarded to candidates with the right qualifications and potential, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria:

Hold a PhD or be in the final stages of completing their PhD. Confirmation of the PhD award must be obtained before the Fellowship is finalized.
Possess no more than seven years of active full-time postdoctoral experience at the time of application (this includes teaching experience and/or time spent in industry but excludes career breaks).
Be currently based outside the UK and not hold UK citizenship.
Demonstrate proficiency in both oral and written English.
Present a clearly defined research proposal that has been agreed upon with a UK host researcher.

Candidates are encouraged to thoroughly review the scheme notes to ensure that they meet all eligibility requirements before applying.

Application Process

Applying for the International Fellowships Programme involves several steps:

Prepare Your Research Proposal: Craft a well-defined research proposal that aligns with the goals of the fellowship and demonstrates its significance in your field.
Find a UK Host Researcher: Identify and collaborate with a UK-based researcher who can act as your host during the fellowship. This collaboration is essential for your application.
Complete Your Application: Submit your application along with all necessary documentation prior to the deadline. Ensure that your application includes justification for the requested funding for research expenses and relocation costs.
Submit Your Application: Applications must be submitted by 18 March 2025, 17:00 GMT.

Funding Support

Fellowships are awarded for a duration of two years, with a funding structure that supports both research and relocation needs. The financial support aims to empower researchers to focus on their projects without the burden of financial constraints. Following the completion of the fellowship, awardees may qualify for Alumni funding, which supports ongoing networking activities with researchers based in the UK or internationally.

Contact Information

For additional inquiries, applicants can reach out to the support team at [email protected]. It is highly recommended to get in touch with them for detailed guidance or clarification regarding the application process.

In Conclusion

The 2025 International Fellowships from the British Academy and the Royal Society present a unique opportunity for early-career researchers to enhance their academic pursuits while contributing to meaningful research. This program not only offers generous funding and support but also creates pathways for future collaboration and innovation within a globally engaged academic community.

Don’t miss out on this transformative opportunity! Mark your calendars, prepare your applications, and take the next step toward advancing your research career in the UK. Together, let’s build a globally connected and impactful research workforce—apply for the International Fellowships today!