The Cambridge Research Fellowships 2025 offer outstanding scholars the chance to pursue independent research in an intellectually stimulating environment at the University of Cambridge. Clare Hall, Cambridge, invites applications for the Betty Behrens Research Fellowship and Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Isaac Newton Trust Research Fellowship, two three-year stipendiary positions commencing in October 2025. The University of Cambridge is consistently ranked among the top 3 universities worldwide.
Both Cambridge Research Fellowships are for scholars within five years of completing their PhD, provide an annual stipend of £37,233.09 (adjusted for inflation), and offer a supportive academic environment. These prestigious fellowships, open to early-career researchers across disciplines, provide comprehensive support to facilitate groundbreaking studies. Application Deadline: The closing date for receipt of applications is 2nd February 2025 and for references is 9th February 2025.
University/Institutions
- Name: University of Cambridge
- Place: Cambridge, England, UK
- Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top 3 universities globally (QS and THE rankings).
- Programs: Research Fellowships across diverse fields
- Duration: 3 years
Types of Clare Hall Fellowships:
- Betty Behrens Research Fellowship
- Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Isaac Newton Trust Research Fellowship
Research Areas
The Cambridge Research Fellowships 2025 cover a wide array of disciplines, ensuring opportunities for scholars across diverse fields:
- Research must align with the fellowship’s focus on:
- Anti-social behavior causes and mitigation
- Personality defects and disorders
- Developmental psychology
- Criminology
- Related interdisciplinary fields
- Arts
- Visual Arts
- Performing Arts (Music, Theatre, Dance)
- Creative Writing
- Film and Media Studies
- Humanities
- History
- Philosophy
- Literature and Linguistics
- Classics
- Religious Studies
- Cultural and Area Studies
- Social Sciences
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Political Science
- Economics
- Psychology
- Education
- Geographical Health, and Data Science.
Cambridge Research Fellowships Benefits
- Annual Stipend: £37,233.09 (subject to inflation review in October 2025).
- Free meals allowance.
- Limited rental accommodation available for singles, couples, and families
- Research Fellows have no college teaching duties for the Betty Behrens Research Fellowship.
- Isaac Newton Trust Research Fellowship: No teaching duties are required, but elective teaching for up to 4 hours/week is allowed.
- Membership in the College Governing Body and potential committee service.
- Access to university facilities, including libraries and labs
- Opportunities to collaborate with world-renowned academics
Benefits Not Included
- Relocation costs
- Dependents’ support
Eligibilities of Cambridge Research Fellowships
Betty Behrens Research Fellowship
- Open to graduate students nearing PhD completion or researchers with initial post-doctoral experience.
- Minimum requirement: Thesis submission by the application closing date.
- No restrictions on age, sex, or previous standing.
- Not open to those who have held a Research Fellowship at Oxford or Cambridge colleges.
- Preference for candidates at an early stage of their research career.
- Residency: Fellows must live in Cambridge during Full Term, with leave possible for research elsewhere.
Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Isaac Newton Trust Research Fellowship
- Open to graduate students nearing PhD completion or researchers with initial post-doctoral experience.
- Minimum requirement: Thesis submission by the application closing date.
- No restrictions on age, sex, or previous standing.
- Not open to those who have held a Research Fellowship at Oxford or Cambridge colleges.
- Preference for candidates at an early stage of their research career.
- No teaching duties are required, but elective teaching for up to 4 hours/week is allowed.
- Residency: Fellows must live in Cambridge during Full Term, with leave possible for research elsewhere.
Required Documents
- Letter of Application:
- 1-page cover letter with your name, research field, PhD details (institution, date, thesis title, supervisor).
- CV:
- 2-page CV.
- Separate list of publications.
- Personal Statement:
- 1-page narrative including:
- Research career and long-term plans.
- Layperson-friendly research description.
- Motivation to join Clare Hall.
- Proposed Research:
- 2-page (max 1500 words) research proposal with:
- Title, Background, Research Questions, Methodology, Expected Outcomes, References.
- Accessible to non-specialists.
- Work Sample:
- A representative paper, book, or thesis chapter.
- If co-authored, include a statement on your contribution.
- Head of Department Statement of Support
- Three Reference Letters
Cambridge Research Fellowships Application Process
- Visit the official Cambridge Research Fellowships portal.
- Betty Behrens Research Fellowship 2025 Application Portal
- Isaac Newton Trust Research Fellowship Application Portal
- Register and complete the online application.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- Await an invitation for interviews (if shortlisted).
Tips for a Successful Application
- Develop a well-articulated research proposal aligned with Cambridge’s expertise.
- Highlight how your research will contribute to the academic community.
- Obtain strong reference letters from renowned academics.
- Proofread your application for clarity and coherence.
- Emphasize your achievements, such as publications or awards.
Living Expenses
Living in Cambridge can be costly, but it offers an enriching cultural and academic experience. Monthly expenses for international researchers typically include:
- Accommodation: £600–£1,000 (depending on location and type).
- Food and Groceries: £200–£300.
- Transportation: £50–£100 (bicycling is popular and cost-effective).
- Miscellaneous: £150–£300 (entertainment, books, etc.).
Estimated Total: £1,200–£1,800 per month.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
- Cambridge offers unparalleled academic resources and a vibrant research community.
- Fellows gain access to global collaborations and career development opportunities.
- The fellowship allows scholars to focus entirely on research without teaching obligations.
- Cambridge’s reputation boosts the visibility of your work and enhances your career trajectory.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the fellowship open to all nationalities?
Yes, international researchers are welcome to apply. - Can I apply if my PhD is not yet complete?
Yes, but you must complete it before the fellowship begins. - Are there age restrictions for applicants?
No, but there is a limitation on the time since PhD completion (usually within five years). - Can I reapply if unsuccessful?
Yes, provided you still meet the eligibility criteria. - Can fellows undertake teaching during the fellowship?
Teaching is not required, but optional opportunities may be available.