Heritage Collections Research Fellowships at IASH support postdoctoral research using the University of Edinburgh's unique archives, art, and rare materials to foster innovative humanities and social science scholarship.
Funder: Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (application closing) | April 2027 (full application closing, 17:00 GMT)
Funding Amounts: £2,000/month for 3–6 months; up to £500 travel allowance; dedicated office and library access.
Summary: Supports postdoctoral research using University of Edinburgh Heritage Collections, fostering scholarly engagement at IASH.
Key Information: Forecasted cycle—dates are projected; applicants must have earned a doctorate within the last five years and not previously held an IASH Fellowship.
The Heritage Collections Research Fellowships are designed to support postdoctoral scholars in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences wishing to conduct research utilizing the University of Edinburgh's extensive Heritage Collections. These collections include archives, art, manuscripts, musical instruments, and rare books, spanning four centuries and managed by expert curators and conservators. Fellows gain privileged access to these resources, benefit from a vibrant scholarly community at the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH), and are encouraged to contribute to the Centre for Research Collections (CRC) through projects, events, and public engagement.
The fellowship particularly encourages research in areas such as decoloniality, sustainability, and international connections (notably with Africa), but proposals on any topic leveraging the Heritage Collections are welcomed. Fellows are expected to be in residence, participate in IASH and CRC activities, and contribute to the academic and public life of the Institute.