Researchers working in disability studies and related disciplines now have an exciting opportunity to collaborate with one of the United Kingdom’s leading disability research centres through the Norah Fry International Visiting Scholar Scheme 2026/27 at the University of Bristol.
Hosted by the internationally respected Norah Fry Centre for Disability Studies within the School for Policy Studies, this prestigious programme invites researchers from institutions outside the United Kingdom to spend up to six weeks at the University of Bristol working alongside leading academics on impactful disability research.
The programme has been designed to strengthen international collaboration, encourage innovative research, and build lasting academic partnerships across the global disability studies community. Successful applicants will receive financial support of up to £5,000 to help cover travel and accommodation costs while benefiting from access to one of Europe’s leading research-intensive universities.
About the Norah Fry International Visiting Scholar Scheme
The Norah Fry Centre for Disability Studies has built an international reputation for producing high-quality research that influences disability policy, practice, and legislation. Through this Visiting Scholar Scheme, the Centre aims to bring together talented researchers from around the world to collaborate on projects that contribute to improving the lives of disabled people.
Rather than functioning as a traditional academic exchange, the programme focuses on developing meaningful research collaborations between visiting scholars and members of the Norah Fry Centre.
During the six-week placement, scholars will work closely with one or more Centre researchers to achieve a clearly defined research objective. This objective may include preparing academic publications, analysing research data, developing grant proposals, or advancing other collaborative research activities.
Participants will become part of a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment within the University of Bristol’s School for Policy Studies, benefiting from regular academic engagement, seminars, networking opportunities, and collaboration with internationally recognised experts.
Financial Support Available
Successful applicants will receive financial assistance worth up to £5,000.
The funding may be used to cover:
- International return airfare to Bristol
- Accommodation during the research visit
- Essential research-related expenses directly connected to the approved project
It is important to note that the award does not cover salaries, stipends, or daily subsistence expenses, meaning applicants should have institutional support or alternative arrangements for personal living costs during their stay.
What Visiting Scholars Will Receive
Selected scholars will benefit from numerous academic and professional opportunities, including:
- Appointment as an official Norah Fry Centre International Visiting Scholar
- Up to six weeks of collaborative research at the University of Bristol
- Financial contribution of up to £5,000
- Access to University of Bristol library resources
- Dedicated research workspace
- Access to relevant university facilities
- Opportunities to build international research partnerships
- Collaboration with internationally recognised disability researchers
- Participation in seminars and academic discussions
- Opportunities to contribute to the Centre’s wider research community by delivering research presentations or seminars.
Research Areas of Interest
The scheme welcomes applications from researchers whose work aligns with the Norah Fry Centre’s research priorities.
Relevant research areas include:
- Disability Studies
- Disability Policy
- Disability Law
- Health and Social Care
- Inclusive Education
- Social Policy
- Disability Rights
- Social Security
- Co-production
- Equality and Inclusion
Researchers working in related interdisciplinary fields whose work contributes to disability research are also encouraged to apply.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must satisfy the following eligibility requirements:
- Hold a PhD or have successfully completed their PhD viva before the application deadline.
- Be based at a university or research institution outside the United Kingdom.
- Demonstrate research interests that align with the Norah Fry Centre’s work.
- Submit a well-defined research proposal that can realistically be advanced during a six-week visit.
- Be committed to engaging with Centre members and contributing to its academic activities.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents:
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A CV of no more than two pages.
2. Project Outline
Approximately two pages describing:
- Proposed research activity
- Research objectives
- Why the project would benefit from being undertaken at the Norah Fry Centre
- Expected collaboration with Centre members
- Potential contribution to the academic community, such as presenting a seminar
- Itemised estimated costs, including:
- Flights
- Accommodation
- Visa costs
- Other eligible research expenses.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Alignment with the Norah Fry Centre’s research priorities
- Quality of the proposed research
- Feasibility of completing meaningful progress during the six-week visit
- Potential for long-term collaboration
- Contribution to the Centre’s research culture and academic community.
Why You Should Apply
The Norah Fry International Visiting Scholar Scheme offers much more than financial support. It provides an opportunity to become part of a globally respected research community dedicated to advancing disability studies through evidence-based research and international collaboration.
Participants can expand their academic networks, develop future funding proposals, co-author publications with leading scholars, and strengthen the international impact of their research. Access to the University of Bristol’s extensive academic resources and collaborative environment can also enhance future research and career opportunities.
For researchers seeking to influence disability policy, improve inclusive practices, and contribute to global conversations on disability rights, this programme represents an outstanding professional development opportunity.
Application Deadline
Monday, 26 October 2026.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted by email with all required documents before the deadline.
Official Programme Page:
Norah Fry International Visiting Scholar Scheme
Official University Website:
University of Bristol
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