The British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships 2025 are open to postdoctoral researchers from ODA-eligible countries where the British Council operates, a 12-month opportunity to conduct research at the University of Edinburgh’s Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH). Applicants must have completed their PhD within the past seven years and propose research aligned with the British Council’s thematic areas, such as arts, education, English language, international relations, cultural diplomacy, and development.
The research should demonstrate potential for international collaboration and impact, especially in terms of knowledge exchange between the UK and the applicant’s home country. The British Council Research Fellowships include a £2,500 monthly stipend, travel expenses, and academic support. The application deadline is 28 July 2025.
University/Institution Details
- Organized By: British Council is a partnership with the Institute for Advanced Studies in Humanities (IASH)
- Host University: University of Edinburgh
- Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
- Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top 20 universities globally.
- Programs: The fellowship is hosted by the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH), focusing on interdisciplinary research in arts, humanities, and social sciences.
- Duration: 12 months (10 months in Edinburgh, 2 months in the home country)
Research Themes
- Focus on British Council priority areas: Arts, Education, and English Language.
- Include cross-cutting areas such as:
- International relations and soft power
- International development and peacebuilding
- Cultural relations and diplomacy
British Council Research Fellowships Programme Objectives
- Generate knowledge supporting British Council strategy and data.
- Diversify and broaden British Council’s knowledge base.
- Support capacity building of emerging researchers from underrepresented regions.
- Foster long-term UK-international researcher collaborations.
- Promote professional networking for British Council staff and partners.
- Increase visibility and application of British Council insights.
- Contribute to the UK’s broader research and skills agenda.
British Council Research Fellowships Benefits
- 10-month research residency at the University of Edinburgh (Jan–Oct 2026)
- Up to 2 additional months for dissemination in the Fellow’s home country
- Monthly bursary of £2,500 for 12 months
- Dedicated office space, university email, and full library access
- University mentor aligned with Fellow’s research interests
- Weekly community lunches and networking events
- Seminar series to share and refine research
- Opportunity to organize and join workshops, colloquia, and public events
Benefits Not Included
- Visa application fees
- Health insurance
Eligibility Criteria for British Council Research Fellowships
- Be early-career researchers (postdoctoral level).
- Have completed a PhD within the last 7 years (adjusted for career breaks).
- Be based in a country that receives Official Development Assistance (ODA) and where the British Council operates.
- Citizens from ODA-recipient countries where the British Council operates
- PhD holders (graduated between 2018–2025 or with acceptable career breaks)
- Applicants must not have held a permanent academic post or a prior IASH Fellowship
- Those who’ve completed a PhD but not yet graduated must provide proof of completion
- The fellowship supports research aligned with the British Council’s vision: building peace and prosperity through trust and international connection.
- Research should contribute to cultural relations, peacebuilding, education, or international development.
Additional Notes:
- Fellowship runs strictly from January to December 2026
- Fellows must be based at IASH during the 10-month residency
- At least one seminar presentation and a final report are required
- Strong preference for interdisciplinary and innovative research
- Applicants are encouraged to contact relevant Edinburgh researchers in advance
Assessment Criteria
- Relevant academic or professional background.
- Research proposal aligned with programme objectives.
- Experience in engaging non-academic audiences (e.g., policymakers, artists).
- Strong commitment to knowledge exchange and ongoing dissemination.
Eligible Countries (selected list):
- Africa: Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, Ethiopia, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Egypt, Tanzania, Zambia, Rwanda, Malawi, Mozambique
- Asia: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Viet Nam, Thailand, Philippines
- Middle East & North Africa: Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Libya, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt
- Europe: Albania, Ukraine, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Georgia
- Americas: Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Cuba, Venezuela
- Others: Armenia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, Occupied Palestinian Territories
Required Documents
- References (minimum 2 and maximum 3)
- Cover letter (describing how the fellowship will support British Council’s objectives)
- Completed application form
- Research proposal
- Any additional document must be emailed to iash@ed.ac.uk
British Council Research Fellowships Application Procedure:
- Deadline: 28 July 2025 (by 23:59 UK time)
- Apply online through the IASH portal
- Email supporting documents to: iash@ed.ac.uk
- Include: completed form, CV, research proposal, cover letter
- 2 to 3 confidential references must be emailed by referees directly to IASH by the deadline
- At least one referee must confirm successful PhD completion
Application & Fellowship Timeline
- 29 April 2025: Application portal opens
- 23 May 2025, 13:00 UK time: Applicant webinar
- 28 July 2025, 23:59 UK time: Application deadline
- End of August 2025: Candidate selection
- January 2026: Fellowship begins
- Jan – Oct 2026: Fellowship at University of Edinburgh
- Nov – Dec 2026: Knowledge exchange in home country with British Council
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure your research proposal aligns with the British Council’s thematic priorities.
- Highlight how your work will foster international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Demonstrate the potential impact of your research in your home country.
- Provide strong academic references that attest to your research capabilities.
- Proofread your application to ensure clarity and coherence.
Monthly Living Expenses in Edinburgh (Estimate)
- Rent (shared flat): £500–£900
- Food: £200–£300
- Transportation: £60–£100
- Miscellaneous/personal: £150–£300
Total Estimate: £1,167–£2,330/month
Why Choose This Opportunity?
This fellowship offers a unique chance to conduct research at a prestigious institution, engage with a global academic community, and contribute to meaningful knowledge exchange between the UK and your home country. The financial support and resources provided ensure that fellows can focus on their research and professional development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply if I completed my PhD more than 7 years ago?
A1: No, applicants must have completed their PhD within the last 7 years.
Q2: Is the fellowship open to all disciplines?
A2: The fellowship is intended for research aligned with the British Council’s themes, primarily in arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Q3: Are there any restrictions on previous UK education?
A3: Yes, applicants should not have previously studied in the UK or other non-ODA countries.
Q4: What support is provided during the 2 months in the home country?
A4: Fellows will engage in knowledge exchange and dissemination activities in collaboration with the British Council.
Q5: How many fellowships are awarded?
A5: Two fellowships are awarded for the 2025 cycle.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For comprehensive information and to apply, please visit the British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships page.
