The Faculty of English and Department of Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic (ASNC) at the University of Cambridge welcomes applicants for consideration for the British Academy International Fellowship scheme.

The British Academy International Fellowship is a two-year initiative aimed at attracting and retaining emerging talent in the UK to create a globally connected and mobile research workforce. This program seeks to draw talented international early-career researchers to conduct their research in the UK, support them in pursuing high-quality and innovative projects, and provide opportunities for career development.

ELIGIBILITY:

Applicants should ensure that they meet the following requirements:

Have a PhD, or applicants in the final stages of their PhD will be accepted provided that the PhD will be completed (including viva) before the start date of the Fellowship. Confirmation of the award of the PhD will be required before any Fellowship award is confirmed.

Applicants should have no more than seven years of active full time postdoctoral experience at the time of application (discounting career breaks, but including teaching experience and/or time spent in industry).

Be working outside the UK.

Not hold UK citizenship.

Be competent in oral and written English.

Have a clearly defined and mutually-beneficial research proposal agreed with a UK host researcher. Important:  A Faculty member is needed to act as the ‘UK Sponsor’ for the application and must work with the lead applicant to develop the project proposal. The sponsor will provide mentoring, support and guidance throughout the duration of the Fellowship. Please note that your UK sponsor in the chosen department must be consulted prior to the internal deadline and must have agreed to support the development of your project proposal and application. Please ensure your sponsor has read the relevant scheme notes. Sponsors should be permanent faculty employed members of staff (normally assistant professors, associate professors or professors). Please contact ajm325@cam.ac.uk if you are unsure of the status or eligibility of your potential sponsor.

Applicants should ensure that they meet all the eligibility requirements, which are explained in the scheme notes. The 2026 scheme notes will be published shortly; however, you may wish to review the 2025 scheme notes. Please read these carefully.

BENEFIT:

Earlier rounds of the fellowship typically include:

Full-time salary funded through the host university

Research funding for project-related travel, materials, and activities

Relocation support

Visa cost support

Full academic integration, mentorship, and training opportunities

Access to world-class research facilities at Cambridge