About the Fellowship
The Cook-Crone Research Bye-Fellowship 2026–27 at Gonville & Caius College, University of Cambridge, offers a prestigious opportunity for independent research in Biblical studies, Rabbinics, Patristics, comparative religion, Ancient Eastern languages, and the history, archaeology, and social anthropology of West Asia and the Middle East prior to 1750. This one-year full-time fellowship provides scholars with the freedom to pursue a specific project free from other commitments, while benefiting from a generous stipend of up to £30,000, subsidised or free accommodation, and up to ten free meals per week. Fellows can engage in occasional teaching, lecturing, and examining. The fellowship promotes interdisciplinary research, archival study, and international collaboration, and aligns with global goals to advance scholarship in ancient studies and comparative religion. Applicants should have at least three years of postdoctoral research experience and a significant publication record. Research mobility and academic impact are strongly supported.
Fellowship / Details
- Position Title: Cook-Crone Research Bye-Fellowship 2026–27
- Host Institution: University of Cambridge
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: Gonville & Caius College
- Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Research Field(s): Biblical Studies, Ancient Religions, West Asian and Middle Eastern History
- Fellowship Type: Full-time, Fixed-term Research Fellowship
- Level: Mid-career / Established researcher
- Fellowship Duration: 12 months
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Funding/Compensation: Up to £30,000 stipend, free or subsidised accommodation, up to ten free meals per week, visa support up to £2,000
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Supported Research Fields / Areas:
- Biblical studies, Rabbinics, Patristics
- Comparative religion
- Ancient Eastern languages and literature
- History, archaeology, and social anthropology of West Asia and the Middle East prior to 1750
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in a relevant field
- Minimum of three years postdoctoral research experience
- Strong record of publications
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior teaching or examining experience
- International research exposure
- Interdisciplinary and archival research skills
Fellowship / Job Benefits
- Monthly stipend up to £30,000
- Health insurance/accident coverage
- Travel allowance for conferences or research trips
- Visa sponsorship and relocation support up to £2,000
- Subsidised or free accommodation
- Office/lab access and institutional resources
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent, high-quality research within the approved project
- Produce publications and reports in relevant disciplines
- Engage in occasional teaching, lecturing, and examining
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary and international research teams
- Participate in research trips if required
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit the application via email to the HR Administrator, Debbie Hogg, at careers@cai.cam.ac.uk. Include all required documents and arrange for two referees to submit references directly. Ensure applications are received before 12:00 BST on 21 April 2026.
Required Documents:
- CV / Resume
- Covering letter detailing education, qualifications, publications, awards, and proposed research (max 1,000 words)
- Two referee reports
- Any supporting documents (optional, max 500 words)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Immediately
- Deadline: 21 April 2026, 12:00 BST
- Interview Period: To be announced
- Fellowship Start Date: October 2026
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: University of Cambridge
- Official Fellowship Notification: Gonville & Caius College Cook-Crone Bye-Fellowship
- Apply Online Here: Email application to careers@cai.cam.ac.uk
