Description
The British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships 2026–2027 are now open for applications, offering an exceptional opportunity for mid-career scholars to pursue high-quality research in the humanities and social sciences while promoting public engagement. If you’re looking for UK-based research funding that supports both academic excellence and wider societal impact, this prestigious scheme is for you.
What Are the British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships?
The Mid-Career Fellowships are a competitive funding programme offered by the British Academy, designed to free successful applicants from normal academic duties—teaching and administration—so they can focus entirely on a major research project for a period of 6 to 12 months. In addition to producing significant scholarly outputs, fellows are expected to engage broader audiences and communicate their findings publicly.
Degree Level
UK British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships 2026 is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at British Academy.
Available Subjects
Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
Purpose of the Mid-Career Fellowship
The core purpose of the British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships is twofold:
- Advance Outstanding Research: Free scholars from normal duties to complete significant work in their field.
- Promote Public Engagement: Support researchers who can communicate complex academic findings to non-specialist audiences, fostering public understanding of humanities and social sciences.
Applicants must present a clear strategy for public engagement and detail how their research contributes to both academic progress and public discourse.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
This scheme is ideal for mid-career researchers in the UK who:
- Are employed at a UK-based university, Higher Education Institution, or Independent Research Organisation
- Are within 15 years of receiving their doctorate (exceptions made for career breaks)
- Have a proven track record as outstanding communicators and research leaders in their field
Applicants without a doctorate must be within 15 years of their first academic appointment. The British Academy encourages scholars who actively contribute to the public understanding of social sciences and humanities disciplines.
Application Procedure
Applications open on 2 July 2025 and must be submitted by 20 August 2025 at 17:00 BST.
To apply:
- Visit the British Academy’s official website
- Carefully read the scheme guidance and application notes
- Prepare a strong case for both your research proposal and your public engagement strategy
For specific queries, contact:
grants@thebritishacademy.ac.uk
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can early-career or postdoctoral researchers apply?
While the scheme targets mid-career scholars, it is also open to early-career and established researchers who meet the eligibility requirements related to research excellence and communication.
2. Do I need to hold a PhD to apply?
Not necessarily. Applicants without a PhD can apply if they are within 15 years of their first academic appointment and can demonstrate an outstanding contribution to their field.
3. Is public engagement mandatory for the fellowship?
Yes. A strong plan for public understanding and communication of your research is a central requirement and is evaluated alongside the academic quality of your proposal.
Final Thoughts
The British Academy Mid-Career Fellowships are one of the most sought-after opportunities for researchers in the humanities and social sciences in the UK. With a focus on both research excellence and public impact, this fellowship is a powerful platform for scholars aiming to deepen their expertise while making their work more accessible and meaningful to society.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic career and contribute to the public understanding of your field, apply now for the 2026–2027 British Academy Mid-Career Fellowship.
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