The Centre for Research in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (CRASSH) at the University of Cambridge is currently accepting applications for its 2026/2027 Visiting Fellowships, which are fully funded. These Fellowships specifically target scholars based in the Global South, aiming to facilitate intellectual exchange and collaboration within the vibrant academic environment of CRASSH and the wider University of Cambridge community.
This Fellowship opportunity is designed to support academics employed at higher education institutions in the Global South by enabling them to engage with fellow researchers, access the University’s rich collections and resources, and foster long-term partnerships. The programme encourages the development of scholarly collaborations that extend beyond the duration of the visit.
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must hold a position at a higher education or research institution located within the Global South, defined according to the OECD’s list of countries receiving Official Development Assistance. Employment should be at a minimum of 50% contract time, and the candidate’s primary research focus must lie within the arts, humanities, or social sciences disciplines.
In addition, candidates are required to have completed their PhD at least five years prior to submitting their application. Proficiency in spoken English sufficient to actively participate in academic discussions is also mandatory.
What Does the Fellowship Offer?
- Travel Costs: Economy return airfare from the fellow’s home institution to Cambridge, in line with the University’s travel policies.
- Visa Expenses: Visa fees will be reimbursed if necessary.
- Accommodation: Single ensuite rooms will be arranged and paid for at Wolfson College. Fellows benefit from waived membership fees, plus complimentary access to the college library, gym, and communal social areas. They may also join college activities open to members.
- Dining: Meals in the college Dining Hall are available at the Fellow's own cost.
- Subsistence Support: A weekly allowance of £175 is provided to assist with food and local transportation expenses, recognizing that everyday costs in the UK might be higher than in the Fellow’s home country.
- Workspace and Resources: Each Fellow is allocated desk space and computer access within CRASSH, alongside full access to the University’s libraries, collections, and participation in academic events organized by CRASSH and other University bodies.
- Duration: The in-person Fellowship must last a minimum of nine weeks, with the option to extend up to twelve weeks. Following the residential period, Fellows will engage in a digital Fellowship for nine months, maintaining access to the University’s online resources and events.
Conditions of the Fellowship
This Fellowship demands physical presence in Cambridge for the entire residential period of at least nine weeks. Fellows may spend up to one week away from Cambridge during their term for research, family, or personal reasons, provided prior approval is obtained. However, subsistence payments are not made for absences from the UK for non-academic activities.
Participation in the Research Practice seminar series held at CRASSH is a core component of the Fellowship. Moreover, all Fellows will collaborate to organize a thematic event during their residency, where they will also present their research. Preparatory meetings for this event will take place online before arrival.
Applicants must confirm travel dates at least five months prior to arriving in Cambridge and apply for any required visas no later than four months before the Fellowship begins. Obtaining travel insurance at personal expense is mandatory for all successful applicants.
Fellows intending to bring dependants should notify CRASSH before receiving the official invitation letter. While dependants can be included on the invitation, CRASSH does not cover additional costs for accompanying family members. Standard accommodation is single rooms; double rooms may be booked subject to availability and at the Fellow’s additional expense. Unfortunately, accommodation for Fellows with children cannot be provided due to limited availability in Cambridge. Should Fellows independently arrange family housing, CRASSH will contribute an amount equal to the cost of the single room accommodation it would normally provide.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the online system by the deadline of 16 February 2026. Prospective applicants need to register or log in on the application portal located on the right side of the relevant webpage. Required documentation includes:
- A detailed curriculum vitae following the guidelines in the guidance document.
- A letter of support from the applicant’s Head of Department or equivalent authority, confirming approval of leave for the full Fellowship duration.
- Responses to three specific application questions provided in the application form.
For additional details or inquiries, please Visit the Official Webpage of the CRASSH at the University of Cambridge Visiting Fellowships.
