Oxford Sociology has officially opened its call for Expressions of Interest for the British Academy International Fellowships 2026, and for early career researchers outside the UK, this is one of the most exciting academic opportunities of the year.
This fellowship is designed for outstanding international scholars who want to spend two fully funded years at a leading UK institution, developing bold research ideas, expanding global networks, and building long-term academic impact. Hosted at the University of Oxford’s Department of Sociology, the programme is more than funding — it’s a gateway into the UK’s world-class research ecosystem.
If you’ve been looking for a prestigious way to take your postdoctoral career to the next level, this could be the moment that changes everything.
What the British Academy International Fellowship Offers (Funding + Career Boost)?
The British Academy International Fellowships scheme is built to attract exceptional early career researchers from around the world and support them in establishing high-quality research in the UK.
Winning this fellowship means securing two years of dedicated research funding at Oxford, with structured mentoring and access to one of the strongest academic communities in Europe.
It is a rare chance to work in the UK without needing citizenship, and with the full backing of a globally respected institution and alumni network that can shape your academic future for years to come.
Benefits of Winning This Fellowship at Oxford Sociology
Being selected for the British Academy International Fellowship 2026 comes with powerful academic and professional advantages. Fellows receive the opportunity to:
- Conduct research at Oxford for up to two years
- Build innovative, internationally connected research projects in the UK
- Gain mentoring support from an Oxford Sociology faculty member
- Access professional development, training, and skill-building opportunities
- Join the British Academy’s international alumni and networking programme
- Strengthen future academic career pathways through global visibility and prestige
This fellowship is not only financial support — it is a major international recognition of research excellence.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet specific early career and international eligibility conditions. Eligible candidates must:
- Hold a PhD (or be in the final stages, completed before June 2026)
- Have no more than five years of active full-time postdoctoral experience
- Be currently working outside the UK
- Not hold UK citizenship
- Demonstrate strong spoken and written English ability
- Have a clearly defined research proposal agreed with a UK host researcher
- Secure an Oxford Sociology faculty mentor before submission
- Submit an academic CV along with the Expression of Interest form
This fellowship is targeted at globally mobile researchers ready to bring fresh ideas into the UK research environment.
Last Date to Apply
The last date to apply for the British Academy International Fellowships 2026 Expression of Interest through Oxford Sociology is 30 January 2026, with submissions closing at 17:00 UK time. Applicants who are shortlisted and supported by the department must then meet the British Academy funder’s final application deadline of 11 March 2026, making early preparation essential for this highly competitive opportunity.