Cadbury Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in African Studies 2027 in UK

Applications are open for the Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027. The University of Birmingham hosts this eighteen-month research position. It’s based within the School of History and Cultures department. An endowment specifically funds African-based scholars for this opportunity. The post therefore remains limited to applicants currently working in Africa. Successful candidates must be affiliated with an African higher education institution.

Program Snapshot

• Host Institution: University of Birmingham, School of History and Cultures
• Location: Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
• Duration: 18 months, fixed-term through June 2028
• Salary Range: £36,636 to £46,049, grade 7
• Start Date: January 1, 2027
• Application Deadline: September 1, 2026

Focus Areas

• African history and historical specialisms
• African diaspora studies and related disciplines
• Undergraduate and postgraduate African Studies teaching

About the Position

This fellowship supports high-quality research and academic publication. The fellow works closely alongside a dedicated University mentor throughout. Beyond research, the fellow contributes meaningfully to teaching delivery. This includes convening modules and supervising student dissertation work. The department particularly needs support for introductory African history teaching. Fellows also engage in public engagement activities supporting broader university goals.

Key Responsibilities

Fellows develop original research proposals with mentor guidance and support. They analyze data and disseminate findings through publications and seminars. Teaching duties include lecturing, marking assessments, and supervising research students. Fellows also contribute to departmental administration and research-related activities. Additionally, they help foster an equitable, inclusive academic workplace environment.

Who Can Apply

Applicants need a PhD in African history or diaspora studies. This degree must have been examined between June 2021 and June 2026. Candidates must currently reside on the African continent. They also need active affiliation with an African higher education institution. Applicants without permanent academic positions face fewer additional requirements. Those with permanent roles must confirm institutional release for the appointment.

Financial and Practical Support

Beyond the competitive salary, the University covers visa application costs. It also handles the NHS immigration health surcharge fee for fellows. Additional support includes access to professional development and teaching qualifications.

How to Apply

Submit your complete application through the University’s official portal. Direct informal inquiries to Juliet Gilbert at #339966;">#339966;" href="mailto:j.gilbert.2@bham.ac.uk">j.gilbert.2@bham.ac.uk.

#339966;">#339966;" href="https://edzz.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_6001/job/9655/?utm_medium=jobshare&utm_source=External+Job+Share" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This fellowship offers a rare, fully resourced pathway for African-based historians to spend meaningful time within a leading UK research department. Its emphasis on mentorship, publication, and teaching development makes it especially valuable for early-to-mid-career scholars. Given the September 1 deadline, eligible applicants should confirm their institutional release arrangements and begin preparing a strong research proposal well in advance.

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