Introduction

The Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) are offering International Fellowships for PhD and Early Career Researchers in 2025. These fellowships provide opportunities for research at international cultural institutions. Funding is available for travel, visa costs, and a monthly living stipend. The program aims to enhance research quality and diversity.

Scope of Work

The fellowships support research placements at international cultural institutions for 2-6 months (except Harry Ransom Center and Shanghai Theatre Academy, which are 2-6 months). Fellows will conduct research complementing their current work, utilizing the host institution's resources. The program prioritizes research exploring under-represented cultures and histories.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include PhD students funded by AHRC or (for the Library of Congress only) ESRC, and early career researchers (ECRs) in arts and humanities. ECRs must meet at least two of five criteria (e.g., precarious employment, recent career break). Doctoral research assistants are also eligible if they meet specific criteria. Applicants must secure approval from their UK research organization and supervisor/head of department.

Budget and Duration

The total award includes £1000 for travel and visa costs (£1350 for NIHU and STA), plus a £1925 monthly living stipend. Fellowships are for 2-6 months, depending on the institution. Additional funding may be available for accessibility needs. The stipend is paid to the UK research organization, which then pays the fellow.

Additional Information

The program emphasizes inclusivity and diversity. Applicants are encouraged to complete an EDI survey. Host-specific eligibility requirements exist (e.g., Japanese language proficiency for some NIHU institutes, prior contact with the Smithsonian Institution). Successful applicants are responsible for booking travel and securing visas.

Key Dates

• Opening Date: 20 November 2024, 9:00 am UK time
• Webinar: 23 January 2025, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm UK time
• Closing Date: 13 March 2025, 4:00 pm UK time

Application Process

Applications are submitted through the UKRI Funding Service (not Je-S). Applicants must research host institutions and collections, and contact the host institution before applying (required for NIHU and Smithsonian). The application involves answering questions and uploading documents. The lead research organization submits the application.

Selection Process

Applications are first checked for eligibility. Eligible applications are reviewed by experts at the host institutions, and scores are moderated by AHRC and ESRC. Decisions are communicated to the grant holder, who should inform the student if applicable.

Contact Information

For application questions, contact enquiries@ahrc.ukri.org. For Funding Service issues, contact support@funding-service.ukri.org (phone: 01793 547490). Contact details for each host institution are provided in the original document.

Reporting Requirements

All recipients must report outputs and impacts through the Researchfish system (from the third year of PhD for students, and the first year of the main research grant for ECRs).

For More funding Opportunities, Visit Global Funding Opportunities.