The Heritage Collections Research Fellowships support postdoctoral research using the University of Edinburgh’s unique collections, facilitated by the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities.
Funder: Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: £2,000/month for 3–6 months; up to £500 travel allowance; typically 3–6 fellows per cycle
Summary: Supports postdoctoral researchers conducting original research using the University of Edinburgh’s Heritage Collections.
Key Information: Applicants must have earned a doctorate within the last five years and not previously held an IASH Fellowship.
The Heritage Collections Research Fellowships, hosted by the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities (IASH) at the University of Edinburgh, provide postdoctoral scholars in the arts, humanities, and social sciences with the opportunity to undertake original research using the university's extensive Heritage Collections. These collections span four centuries and include archives, art, manuscripts, musical instruments, and rare books, all supported by a team of curators and conservation experts. Fellows benefit from privileged access to these resources, mentorship, and a vibrant scholarly community, and are encouraged to contribute to collaborative projects, workshops, and events at the Centre for Research Collections. The program particularly welcomes research proposals addressing themes such as decoloniality, sustainability, and international connections (notably with Africa).