The Centre for Research in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (CRASSH) at the University of Cambridge is offering its prestigious Visiting Fellowships for the 2026–2027 academic year. This program is specifically designed to support scholars based in the Global South, providing them with a unique opportunity to engage with Cambridge’s vibrant academic community, access world-class research resources, and establish long-term scholarly collaborations. The fellowship offers a transformative experience, allowing fellows to advance their research in a dynamic interdisciplinary environment while contributing to the exchange of knowledge on a global scale.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold a permanent or at least 50% contract position at a higher education institution or research center in a Global South country. Candidates should have earned a PhD at least five years prior to the application date and must demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency to actively participate in seminars, workshops, and discussions. The fellowship is open to scholars from diverse disciplines within the arts, humanities, and social sciences, encouraging innovative research approaches and cross-disciplinary engagement.
Fellowship Benefits
The CRASSH Visiting Fellowship provides comprehensive support to ensure that fellows can focus entirely on their research. The program covers round-trip economy travel from the fellow’s home institution to Cambridge, including any applicable visa expenses. Accommodation is provided in single ensuite rooms at Wolfson College, with full membership access to the college library, gym, and social facilities. Fellows may dine in the college dining hall at personal cost.
In addition to accommodation, fellows receive a weekly subsistence allowance of £175 to assist with living costs such as food and local transportation. Dedicated workspace, computer access, and full use of the University’s libraries and collections are provided, along with opportunities to participate in CRASSH seminars, workshops, and other academic events. The on-site fellowship runs for a minimum of nine weeks and may be extended to twelve weeks. Following this period, fellows continue their engagement as part of a nine-month digital fellowship, enabling ongoing access to online events, research networks, and resources.
Expectations and Responsibilities
Fellows are expected to reside in Cambridge for the duration of their in-person stay, although short absences for research or personal reasons are possible with prior approval. Participation in CRASSH’s Research Practice Seminar is mandatory, providing a platform for engagement with peers and mentors. Fellows are also required to contribute to the planning and execution of a thematic event connected to their research, which will take place during their fellowship term. This event offers an opportunity to present research findings, foster collaboration, and engage with the wider academic community.
Travel arrangements, including visa applications if required, must be finalized well in advance, and fellows are responsible for securing travel insurance. Scholars wishing to bring dependents must notify the fellowship organizers in advance. While accommodation may be provided for a partner in certain circumstances, arrangements for children are not included. Any family accommodation arranged independently will receive partial support equivalent to the cost of the standard single-room provision.
Application Process
Applications are submitted through CRASSH’s online portal, with a typical deadline in February each year. Applicants must provide a detailed curriculum vitae, a letter of support from their home institution confirming approval of their leave, and responses to application questions designed to assess the applicant’s research focus, methodology, and potential contribution to the CRASSH community. Selection is based on academic merit, originality of research, and the potential for meaningful engagement with Cambridge’s scholarly networks.
Significance of the Fellowship
The CRASSH Visiting Fellowship represents an exceptional opportunity for scholars from the Global South to immerse themselves in Cambridge’s interdisciplinary research environment. Fellows gain access to unparalleled academic resources, collaborate with leading experts, and develop long-term partnerships that enhance the impact of their work. By combining rigorous research with community engagement and cross-disciplinary dialogue, the fellowship supports the creation of innovative, globally relevant scholarship while fostering mutual understanding between researchers from diverse contexts.
This program not only advances individual research careers but also contributes to the broader goal of strengthening academic networks and promoting equitable access to research opportunities worldwide. CRASSH Visiting Fellows leave Cambridge with enriched knowledge, expanded professional networks, and enhanced capacity to influence their disciplines both locally and globally.
Application Deadline: 16 February 2026
