The Oxford School of Global and Area Studies (OSGA) is inviting applications for the British Academy Postdoctoral Fellowship scheme 2025-2026. This fellowship supports outstanding early-career researchers, providing them with opportunities to enhance their research and teaching experience in a university setting. The aim is to strengthen their CVs and improve their prospects for securing permanent lecturing positions.

Fellowship Overview

This scheme offers funding for a 36-month fellowship at a host institution. The primary goal is to enable the award holder to conduct an independent research project, culminating in a significant piece of publishable research. The fellowship is designed to support early-career researchers in developing their academic careers.

The British Academy emphasizes the importance of completing a substantial piece of research suitable for publication. Successful candidates will benefit from the resources and mentorship available at the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies. This support is aimed at maximizing their research output and career advancement.

For detailed information about the scheme, please visit the British Academy website: http://www.britac.ac.uk/british-academy-postdoctoral-fellowships.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must carefully review the eligibility criteria outlined in the British Academy's Guidance Notes. These notes are crucial for ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements. Check the Guidance notes available at British Academy Website. New Guidance notes are expected by 2nd Jul 2025.

Key eligibility factors typically include:

• Early career status: Applicants should be within a specified number of years from the award of their doctorate.

• Research focus: The proposed research must align with the British Academy's areas of interest.

• Institutional support: Applicants must secure support from a host institution, in this case, the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies.

Meeting these criteria is essential for consideration in the OSGA internal selection process.

Internal Application Procedure

The OSGA application process consists of two stages: an Outline Stage and a Second Stage (by invitation only). All eligible candidates are welcome to apply during the Outline Stage. OSGA conducts an internal competition to select the applications it will support.

Interested applicants must complete an expression of interest form by 14 July 2025 at 9:00 am. This form requires information about your CV, a brief expression of interest, and the details of your potential mentor within the School. The internal panel will inform selected candidates by early September.

Selected candidates will then be invited to submit a final proposal to the OSGA Research Committee by 16 September at 9:00. Proposals chosen for OSGA support must be completed (including the Referee Statement) and submitted via Flexi Grant by noon on 22 September 2025.

Submission Process and Deadlines

After submission to the OSGA Research Committee, the proposal will be reviewed by the University of Oxford Research Services. They will provide institutional approval and submit the application to the funder by 01 October 2024 – 17:00 BST. Adhering to these deadlines is critical for a successful application.

Ensure all required documents are complete and submitted on time. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. The University of Oxford Research Services plays a vital role in the final submission process.

The competition for the Postdoctoral Fellowship is held in two stages. The Outline Stage is open for everyone within the eligibility criteria who meets the funder evaluation criteria reported in the scheme notes. The Second Stage is by invitation only.

Contact Information

For further information or any queries, please contact OSGA’s Research Facilitation Team. You can reach them at research@area.ox.ac.uk. They are available to provide guidance and support throughout the application process.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you need clarification on any aspect of the application. The Research Facilitation Team is dedicated to assisting potential applicants. Early communication can help ensure a smooth and successful application.

We encourage all interested and eligible candidates to apply for this prestigious fellowship opportunity.