International Interdisciplinary Research Projects 2026

About the Fellowship

The International Interdisciplinary Research Projects 2026 at The British Academy offer a remarkable opportunity for researchers in the humanities and social sciences to lead ambitious, globally collaborative projects. This programme is designed to address urgent transnational and planetary challenges through innovative interdisciplinary research. By fostering strong international partnerships, it supports new ways of thinking and encourages knowledge exchange beyond national borders. The scheme focuses on creating impactful solutions that resonate with global policy and practice, bridging academic expertise and societal needs. With generous funding and a commitment to fostering inclusive research communities, this fellowship stands out as a unique chance for scholars to make meaningful contributions to some of the most pressing issues facing our world today.

Fellowship / Details

Position Title: Principal Investigator, International Interdisciplinary Research Projects 2026
Host Institution: The British Academy
Administering Body / Funding Agency: The British Academy, supported by the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Location: London, United Kingdom
Research Field(s): Humanities, Social Sciences (with interdisciplinary collaboration involving SHAPE and STEM disciplines)
Fellowship Type: Research Project Leadership (Principal Investigator)
Level: Early-career, Mid-career, Senior-level
Fellowship Duration: 24 months
Expected Start Date: March 2026
Working Hours: As per institutional norms (minimum 20% FTE commitment by PI)
Funding/Compensation: Up to £300,000 over two years (at 80% full economic costing)
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD or equivalent research experience in the humanities or social sciences.

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Earth system governance (climate change, biodiversity, pollution)
Digital and transformative technologies (AI, cyber, synthetic biology)
Global health (“One Health” approach to human, animal, and environmental health)
Outer space governance (orbital debris, space law, sovereignty)

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Postdoctoral or equivalent research experience.
Based at an eligible UK university or research institute in an established role.
Must spend at least 20% of working time on the project.
Must involve at least one international Co-Applicant.

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong publication record.
Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary research.
Evidence of international collaboration.

Not Eligible:

Applications not led by researchers in humanities or social sciences.
Proposals without interdisciplinary and international collaboration.

Fellowship/Job Benefits

Funding up to £300,000 (80% FEC)
Support for PI and Co-Applicants’ time
Research assistance funding
Travel, fieldwork, and networking support
Access to international partnerships and policy engagement opportunities
Institutional resources and administrative support

Key Responsibilities

Lead and develop a major interdisciplinary research project addressing transnational or planetary challenges.
Collaborate with international partners across various disciplines.
Produce high-impact research outputs and publications.
Engage with policymakers and wider communities.
Facilitate knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary workshops.