Fellowship Overview
The University of Cambridge invites applications for the McDonald Institute Research Fellowship 2026, a funded international research fellowship designed for postdoctoral researchers in archaeology and related disciplines. This competitive residential fellowship programme supports early-career scholars working in archaeology, heritage studies, human evolution, and museum research. Moreover, it promotes academic excellence while addressing structural inequalities and widening participation in global archaeology research.
Fellows will undertake a structured one-year research residency in Cambridge, UK, with opportunities to extend for a further term depending on funding. During this period, researchers actively engage in seminars, workshops, and interdisciplinary academic discussions. In addition, they focus on independent research outputs, including journal publications, conference presentations, and long-term scholarly projects in archaeology and heritage studies.
The fellowship is closely linked to McDonald Institute research themes in archaeology, human history, and cultural heritage. Furthermore, it encourages innovative interdisciplinary approaches connecting archaeological science, museum studies, and human evolution research. Researchers working on global archaeological contexts, cultural identity, and heritage interpretation are strongly encouraged to apply for this opportunity.
Applicants must hold a PhD in archaeology or a closely related field, typically awarded within the last seven years. In addition, candidates must demonstrate strong academic research experience, publication output, and independent project development ability. Therefore, scholars from diverse backgrounds, especially those from Black Identity or Heritage communities, are highly encouraged to apply for this inclusive fellowship programme.
The fellowship provides competitive salary support along with relocation funding and dedicated research and training grants. Overall, this opportunity offers strong academic mentorship, international collaboration, and career development within a globally recognised research environment.
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Fellowship Details
- Fellowship name: Research Fellowship for Post-holders of Black Identity or Heritage (McDonald Institute 2026)
- Fellowship type: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
- Host Institution: University of Cambridge
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
- Location: Cambridge
- Country: United Kingdom
- Research Field(s): Archaeology, Heritage Studies, Human Evolution, Museum Studies
- Fellowship Type: Full-time Postdoctoral Fellowship (Fixed Term)
- Career Level: Early-career Researchers (Post-PhD)
- Duration: 12 months (extendable by one term)
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Funding / Compensation: £37,694–£46,049 + £2,500 relocation + £5,000 research/training support
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in Archaeology or related discipline
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Research Area
- Archaeology (broadly defined)
- Human Evolution Studies
- Heritage and Cultural Studies
- Museum Studies
- Archaeological Science
- Interdisciplinary Humanities Research
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- PhD in archaeology or a closely related discipline
- Research experience in archaeology or heritage studies
- Strong academic publication record
- Ability to design independent research projects
- Eligibility to work in the UK (support available)
Preferred Qualifications
- Interdisciplinary research experience
- International academic engagement
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Experience in museum or heritage research
- Familiarity with archaeological field or lab methods
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Fellowship Benefits
- Competitive salary (£37,694–£46,049)
- £2,500 relocation support
- £5,000 research and training funding
- Access to Cambridge research facilities
- Academic mentorship and career support
- International conference opportunities
- Eligibility for additional grants post-fellowship
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent archaeological research
- Develop and deliver research outputs
- Publish high-impact academic papers
- Participate in seminars and workshops
- Collaborate with McDonald Institute researchers
- Present research at academic conferences
Application Process
Submit your application online via the official University of Cambridge recruitment portal by completing the application form and uploading all required documents before the deadline: 25 May 2026.
Required Documents
- CV with academic publications
- Research proposal
- Cover letter
- PhD certificate or proof of award
- Academic references
- Writing sample
- Supporting statement (if required)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 24 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 25 May 2026 (UK time)
- Interview Period: To be announced
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
Where to Apply
- University/Institution: University of Cambridge
- Department: McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
- Job ID: JC49506
Official Information
- Source: University of Cambridge Official Recruitment Portal
- Link: Research Fellowship for post-holders of Black Identity or Heritage (Research Associate, Fixed Term) – Job Opportunities – University of Cambridge
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded research positions, international academic collaboration, and advanced research opportunities in the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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