Visiting Fellowships for Scholars from the Global South at the University of Cambridge (substantial support available)
The Centre for Research in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CRASSH) at the University of Cambridge is excited to announce the launch of applications for Visiting Fellowships aimed at scholars from the Global South. This prestigious opportunity invites scholars from higher education institutions in the Global South to engage in an enriching academic exchange at one of the world’s leading universities. The fellowship provides access to the University’s vast resources and collections, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and future academic partnerships.
About the Fellowship:
The Visiting Fellowship program is designed to bring scholars from the Global South to Cambridge to exchange ideas and collaborate with researchers at CRASSH and the wider University of Cambridge community. The fellowships will provide scholars with the opportunity to engage in deep research, take advantage of the University’s vast academic collections, and create opportunities for future research collaborations and exchanges.
For the 2026 cohort, CRASSH will partner with the Department of History and Philosophy of Science to offer a themed call for applications focusing on the theme of Science, Politics, and Justice. This year’s theme invites research proposals that explore the intersection of scientific, medical, and technical knowledge-making with political and social justice efforts.
Themed Call for Applications: Science, Politics, and Justice
We are particularly interested in projects that address the ethical, political, and historical dimensions of scientific knowledge and its role in the pursuit of justice. This can include, but is not limited to:
- The participation of scientific and medical experts in social movements such as anticolonialism, antiracism, climate justice, gender equity, indigenous rights, reproductive rights, and disarmament.
- The role of science in policing, crime prevention, war, and criminal justice systems.
- The moral responsibility of scientists and their role in objectivity, neutrality, and value judgments within socially engaged science.
- Environmental justice, scientific literacy, repatriation of heritage, and the historical use of science to advance political agendas.
We welcome applications from a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
- Art history
- Digital humanities
- Ecology and environmental studies
- History and philosophy
- Medical humanities
- Museum studies
- Science and technology studies
- Sociology
The fellowship aims to advance understanding of the role of science in shaping social and political realities, with a strong focus on case studies of science in action.
What the Fellowship Offers:
The Visiting Fellowship offers substantial support for scholars, including:
- Travel: Return (economy class) airfare to the UK.
- Accommodation: Single ensuite accommodation at Wolfson College.
- Financial Support: A subsistence allowance to cover everyday living costs.
- Office Space: Desk space and access to a computer at CRASSH.
- Access to Resources: Full access to the University of Cambridge’s libraries, collections, and online resources.
- Academic Events: Access to seminars and events organized by CRASSH and other departments at the University.
The fellowship is designed to be a three-month in-person residency followed by nine months of digital engagement, ensuring continued access to the University’s events, resources, and research networks.
Eligibility:
Up to three Visiting Fellows will be selected each year, with one Fellow chosen from a different country in the Global South. To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be engaged in research that aligns with the Science, Politics, and Justice theme.
- Have an academic background in a discipline relevant to the fellowship (including, but not limited to, the disciplines mentioned above).
- Have demonstrated potential to contribute meaningfully to the field of study.
When Will the Fellowship Take Place?
The Visiting Fellowship will take place during the Lent Term 2026 (mid-January to mid-March), with additional digital support continuing for nine months.
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted by 12:00 (midday) UTC on 24 February 2025. All applicants will be notified of the results of the selection process by the end of March 2025.
This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with leading scholars and institutions at the University of Cambridge, fostering cross-cultural exchange and contributing to critical discussions on science and justice. The program aims to support global South scholars in advancing research that addresses critical challenges in science, politics, and justice.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of an exciting academic exchange apply now!
