Applications are now open for a funded postdoctoral fellowship in Medieval History and Archaeology at the Fryske Akademy and the University of Cambridge for 2026. This one-year research fellowship focuses on relations between Frisia, Britain, Ireland, and Scandinavia during the early Middle Ages (c. 400–1100), welcoming researchers in medieval history, archaeology, literature, and language studies.
At the same time, the fellow will develop a research project aligned with expertise available at both institutions while contributing to early medieval scholarship. Academic responsibilities include preparing at least one publication or presentation alongside a follow-up research application. The successful candidate will also receive guidance from mentors at both institutions and participate in supervisory meetings held in Leeuwarden and Cambridge.
The fellowship also includes a three-month visiting placement at the University of Cambridge, supporting academic collaboration within Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic studies. The fellow will additionally organise or participate in at least one academic event, such as a workshop or public lecture, while completing outcomes established through an agreed workplan.
Applicants must hold a PhD before the fellowship start date and demonstrate fluency in English. Although Dutch or Frisian language skills are advantageous, applications are welcomed from all nationalities, provided candidates are eligible to work in the Netherlands and complete a three-month stay in the United Kingdom.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Fellow
- Institution: Fryske Akademy (Netherlands) & University of Cambridge (UK)
- Department: Department of Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic (ASNC)
- Research Disciplines: Medieval History, Archaeology, Literature, Language Studies, Early Medieval Studies
- Location: Leeuwarden, Netherlands / Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Contract Duration: 12 Months
- Start Date: September 2026
- Working Hours: 0.8–1.0 FTE
- Salary/Funding: €4,728–€6,433 gross per month under Scale 11 (Researcher 3), including year-end bonus, holiday allowance, and pension accrual
- Required Qualification: PhD completed before September 2026
Research Area
- Medieval History and Archaeology
- Early Medieval Studies (c. 400–1100)
- Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic Studies
- Literature and Language Studies
- Interdisciplinary Medieval Research
- Historical Relations between Frisia and Britain, Ireland, and Scandinavia
Eligibility/ Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- A completed PhD before the fellowship start date
- Fluency in English
- Ability to undertake independent academic research
- Eligibility to work in the Netherlands
- Eligibility to spend three months in the United Kingdom
- Dutch and/or Frisian language skills are considered beneficial
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and conduct an independent research project related to Frisia and neighbouring regions during the early Middle Ages
- Produce at least one academic publication or presentation
- Prepare a follow-up research application
- Participate in supervisory meetings at Fryske Akademy and the University of Cambridge
- Organise or contribute to an academic event, workshop, or public lecture
- Deliver research outcomes according to an agreed workplan
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit their materials before the closing date by email using the subject line ‘Fellowship 2026’. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview, either in person or online, during week 27.
Required documents include:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum four pages)
- Research proposal (maximum 1,500 words), including the proposed topic, milestones, workplan, institutional relevance, and intended outcomes
- Academic reference letter submitted directly by a referee with contact details
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Currently Open
- Application Deadline: 28 June 2026
- Interview Period: Week 27
- Expected Start Date: September 2026
Applications for this funded postdoctoral fellowship in medieval history, archaeology, and early medieval studies at the Fryske Akademy and the University of Cambridge close on 28 June 2026.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Fryske Akademy Postdoctoral Fellowship?
Applicants must hold a PhD before September 2026 and demonstrate fluency in English.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the fellowship includes a monthly salary, pension accrual, holiday allowance, and year-end bonus.
Where is the fellowship based?
The position is based in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, with a three-month research stay at the University of Cambridge in the UK.
Institutional Overview
The Fryske Akademy is a leading research institute dedicated to the study of Frisian language, history, and culture in the Netherlands. Established in 1938, the academy plays an important role in preserving and promoting the Frisian heritage through academic research, publications, and educational projects. Scholars at the Fryske Akademy focus on a wide range of subjects, including medieval history, linguistics, archaeology, and regional identity. The institute also supports international research collaborations, making it an important centre for anyone interested in Frisian studies, early medieval Europe, and cultural history. The Fryske Akademy continues to support research on Frisian language, history, and regional culture through academic projects and collaborations.
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