The British Academy, in partnership with The Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR), is offering an exceptional opportunity for early to mid-career researchers to join a prestigious international network. This initiative supports junior faculty in developing and leading high-risk, high-reward interdisciplinary research during their pivotal first years as independent investigators.
The opportunity provides a unique platform for exceptional scholars to expand their professional networks, receive focused leadership training, and accelerate their emergence as influential research leaders positioned to drive bold exploration, discovery, and open new fields of inquiry. Participants gain access to world-class mentorship, collaborative opportunities with leading global researchers, and substantial financial support to advance their research agendas.
Key Information
Funding Status: Open for Applications
Career Stage: Early-career, Mid-career
Duration: 24 months (2026-2028)
Application Opens: 3 September 2025
Application Deadline: 5 November 2025, 17:00 GMT
Eligible Applicants: UK-based researchers in social sciences and humanities
About This Opportunity
This two-year fellowship offers UK-based researchers in the social sciences and humanities the chance to collaborate and receive mentorship within a close-knit, interdisciplinary network of leading international researchers. Successful applicants join one of CIFAR’s interdisciplinary research initiatives, working alongside research leaders to advance transformative knowledge and address some of the most important questions facing science and humanity.
Scholars gain membership in an extended community that fosters innovation, encourages interdisciplinary thinking, and provides ongoing support throughout their research journey. This network extends beyond the two-year term, offering lasting connections and collaborative opportunities that can shape entire careers.
CIFAR Research Initiatives Accepting Applications
In partnership with the British Academy, the following CIFAR research initiatives are recruiting scholars:
- Child & Brain Development – Exploring how early experiences shape brain architecture and lifelong development
- Future Flourishing – Investigating pathways to human and planetary well-being in an era of rapid change
- Humanity’s Urban Future – Examining how cities can become more equitable, sustainable, and livable
Financial Support and Benefits
$100,000 CAD in Unrestricted Research Support
Recipients receive substantial financial backing offering flexibility in how funds are utilized:
- Research expenses and equipment
- Teaching release to focus on research
- Student or postdoctoral support
- Conference travel and networking
- Other research-related costs
Access to Seed Funds
Time-limited funding opportunities support high-risk, high-reward interdisciplinary collaborations with CIFAR Fellows, Advisors, and fellow scholars. These seed grants encourage innovative partnerships and exploratory research that might not fit traditional funding models.
Global Network Membership
Join an extended community of creative and like-minded peers across cohorts and diverse disciplines. This network offers invaluable support, collaborative opportunities, and access to expertise spanning multiple fields and geographies. Members participate in annual meetings, workshops, and virtual exchanges throughout the year.
Targeted Leadership Training
Receive specialized training in essential areas of research leadership:
- Team leadership and management
- Trainee mentorship and supervision
- Science communication for diverse audiences
- Science advocacy and policy engagement
- Grant writing and research development
This training equips emerging leaders with skills beyond research excellence, preparing them for influential roles in academia and beyond.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this fellowship, applicants must:
- Hold a PhD (or equivalent degree)
- Be based in the UK at an institution of higher education or research
- Hold a full-time position with responsibility for:
- Leading independent research as a principal investigator
- Supervising or teaching trainees toward degree attainment
- Maintain a secure position throughout the full term from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028
- Typically hold a tenure-track Assistant Professor position (North American context) or equivalent position designed to lead to a permanent faculty appointment (in academic systems outside North America)
- Engage in research that complements the themes and goals of a recruiting CIFAR research initiative
- Meet additional criteria provided on the CIFAR website
For complete details, consult the CIFAR Global Scholars Programme Overview handbook.
Application Process
Interested candidates should carefully review the eligibility criteria and research initiatives before applying. The application requires documentation of research accomplishments, a research statement, and letters of recommendation.
For additional details about the application requirements and to submit an application, visit the CIFAR website.
Application Deadline: 5 November 2025, 17:00 GMT
Why Apply?
This fellowship represents a transformative opportunity for emerging research leaders. Beyond financial support, scholars gain:
- International recognition as part of a prestigious cohort
- Interdisciplinary perspectives that enrich research approaches
- Career acceleration through mentorship and networking
- Leadership development through targeted training
- Collaborative opportunities with world-leading researchers
- Long-term network extending beyond the fellowship period
Former participants have gone on to establish influential research careers, lead major initiatives, and contribute significantly to their fields.
Contact Information
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