If you are a UK-based early- or mid-career researcher in the humanities or social sciences eager to propel your research into the global policy arena, the British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships 2026 offers a unique opportunity. This prestigious British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships enables you to collaborate with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in the United States, immerse yourself in international policy challenges, and expand your network while making a real-world impact.
Basic Information about the Fellowship
- Fellowship Name: British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships 2026
- Host Institution: Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, USA (with options for Singapore and Beirut)
- Application Deadline: September 24, 2025, by 5:00 PM BST
- Fellowship Duration: 12 months
- Funding Amount: Up to £150,000 (approximately $185,000 USD) covering living expenses, travel, and research costs on an 80% full economic costing basis
- Start Dates: Standard start September 2026; possibility for an early start in March or April 2026 for candidates with relocation plans
- Target Audience: UK-based early- and mid-career researchers in the humanities and social sciences (SHAPE disciplines)
University/Institution Details
The fellowship is hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington, DC, one of the world’s leading foreign policy think tanks. Carnegie is known for generating innovative ideas and analysis on global challenges including democracy, climate change, technology, and security across regions such as Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and more. Fellows will benefit from the institution’s vast networks, expert researchers, and influential policy discussions.
Study Areas and Thematic Focus
The British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships focus on five overarching themes aligned with Carnegie’s expertise, offering applicants the flexibility to apply with research projects that fit within:
- Sustainability, Climate, and Geopolitics
- Global Order and Institutions
- South and East Asia
- Middle East and North Africa
- Security and Defence
These themes address pressing global policy issues, making this fellowship ideal for scholars ready to translate academic research into tangible policy influence.
British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships Benefits
Successful fellows receive a comprehensive package including:
- Up to £150,000 funding for 12 months (equivalent to about $185,000), covering salary, research expenses, living costs, and relocation
- Placement at Carnegie’s Washington DC office (with options also in Singapore or Beirut)
- Opportunities to collaborate directly with policy experts and international decision-makers
- Skill-building in policy engagement, interdisciplinarity, and knowledge translation
- Increased visibility and professional credibility through the British Academy and Carnegie networks
- Flexibility to start the fellowship earlier in March or April 2026, with relocation support
Benefits Not Included
While the funding is generous, applicants should note that:
- Some personal travel costs outside of the fellowship scope may not be covered
- Health and travel insurance arrangements are typically the responsibility of the fellow
- Tuition or academic fees are not included, as this is primarily a research and policy placement fellowship
Eligibility Criteria for the British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a UK-based researcher in the social sciences, humanities, and arts.(SHAPE disciplines)
- Hold an early- or mid-career academic position (postdoctoral level or equivalent)
- Demonstrate a strong academic record and potential to influence policy
- Present a research proposal aligned with one or more fellowship thematic areas
- Be available for a 12-month fellowship placement abroad, preferably in Washington DC
- Have relevant language skills, while not mandatory, they are preferred depending on research focus
- Willingness to engage in policy-relevant research and knowledge mobilization activities
Required Documents for the Application
Applicants are required to prepare and submit the following documents online through the British Academy’s Flexi-Grant system:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic and professional experience
- Detailed Research Proposal clearly aligned with one or more of the five thematic research areas
- Supporting statement explaining policy engagement experience and career development goals
- Institutional approval including costing details based on 80% Full Economic Costing (FEC)
- Any language proficiency certificates, if applicable
British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you are a UK-based early or mid-career researcher with a suitable project proposal.
- Prepare Your Research Proposal: Focus your application on one or more thematic areas with clear policy relevance and impact potential.
- Gather Documents: Update your CV, write a compelling supporting statement, and secure institutional approval.
- Register and Apply: Create an account on the British Academy’s Flexi-Grant online system and complete the application form.
- Upload Documents: Submit all required documents in the specified formats before the deadline.
- Review and Submit: Double-check your application for completeness and clarity before final submission.
- Await Decision: Fellowship recipients are notified typically a few months after the application deadline.
- Prepare for Fellowship: Upon successful selection, arrange relocation and plan your fellowship start date.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Align your proposal clearly with the fellowship’s thematic priorities for a strong fit.
- Showcase the impact of your research on real-world policy issues.
- Write a concise and compelling supporting statement emphasizing your readiness to bridge academia and policy.
- Highlight your past collaboration and networking experience with non-academic stakeholders.
- Submit all documentation well before the deadline (September 24, 2025) to avoid last-minute issues.
- Seek feedback on your proposal from mentors or colleagues experienced in policy-related research.
- Demonstrate flexibility and readiness for international relocation.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Researchers (Estimated for Washington DC)
Living costs in Washington DC for international fellows are typically moderate but vary based on lifestyle:
- Rent (shared apartment or studio): $1,200 – $2,000
- Food and groceries: $350 – $500
- Public transport: $80 – $120
- Utilities and internet: $100 – $150
- Health insurance (if self-arranged): $200 – $300
- Miscellaneous and personal expenses: $200 – $300
Total Monthly Estimate: Approximately $2,130 to $3,350
The fellowship’s financial package is designed to comfortably cover these costs.
Why Choose This British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships? 5 Reasons
- Prestigious Host Institution: Work at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a global leader in foreign policy research and diplomacy.
- Generous Funding: Up to £150,000 to support both your salary and research expenses, enabling you to focus fully on your work.
- Global Policy Impact: Engage with pressing international issues such as climate change, security, and geopolitics, making your research relevant and actionable.
- Professional Growth: Develop critical skills in policy engagement, communication, and interdisciplinary research translation.
- Network Expansion: Build long-lasting connections with top academics, policymakers, and practitioners worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who can apply for the British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships 2026?
A: UK-based early- and mid-career researchers in humanities and social sciences with research projects aligned to the fellowship’s themes.
Q: What kind of support does the fellowship provide?
A: Up to £150,000 funding for 12 months, including salary, research costs, living expenses, and relocation support.
Q: Where is the fellowship hosted?
A: Primarily at Carnegie Endowment’s Washington DC office, with options for Singapore or Beirut.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: September 24, 2025, by 5:00 PM BST.
Q: Can I start the fellowship earlier than September 2026?
A: Yes, an earlier start in March or April 2026 is possible with a clear relocation plan.
Q: Are there language requirements?
A: Relevant language skills are preferable but not mandatory.
Official Link:
The British Academy Global Innovation Fellowships 2026 provide a once-in-a-career chance to bridge academic research with policy impact on a global scale. If you are passionate about tackling some of the world’s most urgent challenges through innovative humanities and social science research, do not miss this opportunity to advance your career and make meaningful change.
Start preparing your application now and be part of this transformative fellowship!