British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships: Apply by July 2026

The British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships offer a great chance for early-career researchers. These fellowships take place at the University of Edinburgh and start in January 2027. They support researchers from certain countries to work on projects linked to arts, education, and English language topics.

This program comes from a partnership between the British Council and the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities, or IASH, at the University of Edinburgh. It runs for three years, from 2025 to 2027. The fellowships last 12 months, with most time spent at the university.

Fellowship Details

Fellows spend the first ten months at IASH in Edinburgh. Then, they have up to two months back in their home countries. During that time, they focus on sharing knowledge and results with others, working with the British Council.

The program aims to build connections in areas like international relations, soft power, development, peace building, cultural relations, and diplomacy. Research must connect to British Council priorities in arts, education, and English language.

Applications close on July 31, 2026. This gives researchers time to prepare strong proposals.

Key Benefits

These fellowships provide solid support for researchers. Here is what fellows receive:

• A research stay at the University of Edinburgh for ten months, plus up to two months in their home country for outreach.
• A monthly bursary of £2,500 for all 12 months.
• A dedicated office space, university email, and full library access.
• A mentor from the university whose expertise matches the fellow’s research.
• Weekly lunches with other fellows to build a community.
• Seminars to share work-in-progress and test ideas.
• A full calendar of events at the institute and college.
• Chances to join or lead workshops and colloquia with funding.

These perks help fellows focus on their work while connecting with experts and peers.

Eligibility Requirements

Not everyone can apply. Researchers must meet clear rules:

• Live in an ODA-recipient country where the British Council works. ODA means Official Development Assistance.
• Hold a PhD completed within the last seven years. This counts career breaks, like parental leave or time away from academia.
• No permanent university job or past IASH fellowship. Short-term or temporary roles are fine.
• Research must fit British Council focus areas: arts, education, English language, plus cross-cutting topics like international relations and cultural diplomacy.

If you took time off for family or other reasons, explain it briefly. That time does not count against the seven-year limit.

How Applications Are Reviewed

A panel from the University of Edinburgh and British Council judges entries. They look for:

• Strong research or professional background that fits the program’s themes.
• A clear proposal that aids British Council goals.
• Proof of work with non-academic groups, like policymakers, artists, or the public.
• Plans to share knowledge during and after the fellowship, using new networks.

Strong applications show real impact beyond academia.

Steps to Apply

Start by gathering your materials. You need:

• An online application form.
• Your CV.
• A research proposal.
• A cover letter that explains how your work supports British Council aims.

Also, get two to three references. Referees send them directly to the IASH Director at [email protected] by July 31, 2026. Late references mean no review.

One referee must confirm your PhD defense and final exam passed. They should cover your proposal quality and skills.

Apply through the official form at the IASH website. Check the British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships page for full details.

This opportunity can boost careers and foster global ties. Early-career researchers in eligible countries should review the criteria and submit by the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions