Job Description
Position(s): 90th Research Fellowship
Organization: British Council
Deadline: July 28, 2025, at 23:59 UK Time
Are you a passionate researcher from an Official Development Assistance (ODA)-eligible country looking to broaden your academic horizons, strengthen global networks, and conduct world-class research in the UK? The British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships at the University of Edinburgh 2025 is your gateway to global impact.
As the British Council celebrates 90 years of building international connections through culture and education, this flagship fellowship programme offers a rare opportunity for outstanding scholars to conduct short-term research residencies at one of the world’s most prestigious universities—the University of Edinburgh.
Whether you’re interested in tackling climate change, advancing public health, exploring digital innovation, or addressing social inequalities, this fellowship empowers you to transform your research into real-world change.
About the British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships
In 2025, the British Council marks its 90th anniversary—a testament to nearly a century of advancing education, research, and cultural relations around the world. As part of this celebration, the British Council has launched a special research fellowship programme in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh to support the next generation of global researchers.
This initiative reflects the British Council’s core values: international collaboration, mutual understanding, and a commitment to research for sustainable development. Through this programme, early- and mid-career researchers from ODA-eligible countries can apply to carry out focused research projects that align with global development goals.
The 2025 cohort will build lasting academic links, develop impactful projects, and contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Why Choose the University of Edinburgh?
Ranked among the top 20 universities in the world, the University of Edinburgh is a global leader in interdisciplinary research, innovation, and teaching. Founded in 1583, it has a proud history of producing world-changing ideas and nurturing thinkers who have shaped society—from Charles Darwin and Alexander Graham Bell to recent Nobel laureates.
As a research fellow, you’ll become part of a vibrant and inclusive academic community that is:
- Globally connected, with active partnerships in over 65 countries
- Deeply interdisciplinary, encouraging cross-sector collaboration
- Committed to impact, translating academic insights into real-world solutions
- Supportive, with world-class facilities, mentoring, and research infrastructure
You will also have access to the university’s libraries, labs, innovation hubs, and expert faculty across a wide range of fields.
Fellowship Focus Areas
Applicants are invited to submit research proposals in alignment with the British Council’s development priorities and the University of Edinburgh’s areas of strength. Fellowship themes include but are not limited to:
- Climate Action and Sustainability
Research into climate resilience, biodiversity, green technologies, sustainable agriculture, and water resource management. - Public Health and Wellbeing
Projects addressing infectious diseases, health systems strengthening, nutrition, and mental health in low-resource settings. - Education, Equity, and Inclusion
Studies on access to quality education, inclusive pedagogy, gender equity in learning, and digital education tools. - Digital Innovation and Governance
Research on responsible AI, data privacy, smart governance, and digital inclusion for marginalized communities. - Culture, Identity, and Heritage
Projects exploring decolonization, indigenous knowledge, post-conflict reconciliation, and cultural diplomacy.
Cross-cutting themes such as gender equality, youth empowerment, social justice, and interdisciplinary collaboration are highly encouraged.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to researchers who:
- Are citizens of an ODA-eligible country (as defined by the OECD DAC list)
- Hold a PhD or have equivalent research experience
- Are early- to mid-career professionals with a demonstrable track record of research excellence
- Are not currently employed in a UK institution or university
- Can propose a research project that aligns with one of the fellowship themes
Whether you’re based at a university, research institute, think tank, or NGO, you are encouraged to apply if your work contributes to addressing global challenges.
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What the Fellowship Offers
Fellows selected for the British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships will receive:
- Travel and accommodation costs to Edinburgh
- A monthly stipend to cover living expenses during the research period
- Access to university facilities, events, and academic mentorship
- Opportunities to present and publish research findings
- Support to develop grant proposals and long-term collaborations
- Inclusion in the British Council’s global alumni network
The fellowship duration is up to 3 months and will take place in 2025 (exact dates to be confirmed in consultation with selected candidates and their supervisors).
Benefits Beyond Research
The value of the British Council Fellowship extends far beyond the research itself. Here’s what you gain:
🌍 Global Networking
Connect with a diverse cohort of international researchers and academics, opening the door to joint publications, future grants, and long-term research partnerships.
💡 Professional Growth
Learn new research methods, sharpen your writing and presentation skills, and receive tailored mentorship from world-class scholars.
🎓 Academic Recognition
Gain international exposure, enhance your academic profile, and increase the visibility of your work in global academic forums.
🌱 Societal Impact
Translate your research into action by contributing to policy debates, development strategies, and community initiatives that improve lives.
How to Apply
🗓 Application Deadline:
July 28, 2025, at 23:59 UK Time
📑 Application Requirements:
- Completed application form
- A well-structured research proposal (1,000–1,500 words) outlining your objectives, methodology, and intended outcomes
- An updated CV or academic résumé
- A letter of support from your current institution or supervisor
- Any additional documents requested (e.g., references or writing samples)
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or further clarification of their project.
⚠️ Important Note: Late submissions will not be accepted. Ensure you account for time zone differences and internet issues—submit early!
Final Thoughts: Your Research, Your Impact, Your Future
The British Council 90th Anniversary Research Fellowships at the University of Edinburgh 2025 are more than a chance to conduct research—they are an invitation to lead, collaborate, and shape global conversations that matter. Whether you’re working on climate, health, education, or digital futures, this fellowship could be the turning point in your academic journey.
