Innovation Fellowships Scheme 2026 | Call for Applications

Applications are open for the British Academy’s Innovation Fellowships, Route B. This programme embeds UK researchers directly within FCDO and Cabinet Office work. Up to two fellowships connect academia with real government policymaking. Security clearance and UK residency requirements apply.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: The British Academy, with FCDO and Cabinet Office
• Funding: Up to £120,000 over 12 months, at 80% full economic costing
• Duration: 12 months, starting no later than 31 March 2027
• Eligibility: UK-resident early- to mid-career humanities and social science researchers
• Application Deadline: 18 November 2026, 17:00 GMT
• Fellowships Available: Up to 2

Focus Areas

• Applied history and critical infrastructure
• South Asia geopolitics and regional security
• The UK-France relationship in 2027 and beyond
• UK national security strategy

About the Fellowship

This fellowship places academic researchers directly inside government policy work. Fellows gain rare, close interaction with FCDO and Cabinet Office policymakers. The scheme aims to translate academic knowledge into real policy influence. A security clearance process must complete before the fellowship formally begins.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows receive up to £120,000 covering salary and research costs. The award supports existing contracted time, not an extended appointment. Direct access to government policy work shapes each fellow’s research agenda. Fellows build lasting connections across academia and Whitehall departments.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must be UK residents with a long-term academic appointment. Candidates should work at an approved UK research institution currently. Early- to mid-career status in humanities or social sciences is required. Nationality and security clearance requirements apply; check scheme guidance carefully.

Required Materials

Applicants apply through the British Academy’s Flexi-Grant management system. Full requirements appear within the official scheme guidance notes. UK institutional approval must accompany the submission by the deadline.

How to Apply

Submit your application via Flexi-Grant before 18 November 2026.

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Conclusion

This fellowship offers substantial funding and genuine influence within UK foreign policy circles. Its security clearance requirement means early preparation matters significantly. Eligible UK researchers should review the scheme notes closely before applying.

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