Early career fellowships in cultural and heritage institutions: 2025 (invite only)
Fellowships for early career researchers to co-design impactful research with UK cultural and heritage institutions, focusing on innovation, engagement, and sector development.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: June 11, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to £312,500 full economic cost per fellowship (AHRC funds 80%); projects run 1–2 years; total programme fund £2.5M.
Summary: Fellowship funding for early career researchers to co-design and deliver impactful research with UK cultural and heritage institutions.
Key Information: Invitation-only: only applicants successful at the expression of interest stage may apply.
Description
This funding opportunity supports early career postdoctoral (or equivalent) researchers to undertake fellowships within the UK’s galleries, libraries, archives, and museums (GLAM) sector. Fellows will co-design research projects with their host independent research organisations (IROs), focusing on themes that benefit both the fellow’s career trajectory and the host’s strategic priorities. The scheme aims to develop researcher skills, deliver impactful research, and strengthen capacity and diversity within the cultural and heritage sector. The fellowship includes a tailored cohort training and development programme, networking, and skills activities, with fellows expected to actively participate.
Research topics may include underexplored collections, inclusive engagement, digital innovation, sustainability, and contemporary societal challenges. Outcomes should benefit both the fellow and the host organisation, with an emphasis on public engagement and sector innovation.
