British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars

Introduction: Raising the Global Profile of UK Humanities and Social Science Researchers

Structured international support is rare for early-career scholars outside STEM fields. The British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars partnership decisively transforms this landscape by embedding promising UK researchers in CIFAR’s award-winning, interdisciplinary programs. This two-year program, developed by the British Academy and the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR), gears participants for leadership in research and knowledge mobilization, strengthening their capacity to tackle pressing global challenges.

The British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars program propels UK-based early-career researchers in the social sciences and humanities into dynamic international networks. This fully-funded, two-year initiative (2026–2028) offers world-class mentorship, leadership development, and integration into CIFAR’s global research programs—accelerating both scholarship and career.

What Makes the Program Unique?

Going Beyond the Typical Postdoctoral Experience

Unlike standard postdoctoral fellowships attached to a single lab or supervisor, the British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars scheme is organized around cohort-based, immersive professional development. Successful applicants forge connections within CIFAR’s interdisciplinary research communities. They contribute to cutting-edge projects, attend international workshops, and participate in cross-disciplinary dialogue, all while gaining rare access to high-level mentorship, leadership training, and a vibrant network of peers.

The program isn’t just about doing research; it’s about learning how to

lead, collaborate, and communicate research beyond traditional academic circles. Scholars emerge with skills in team management, public engagement, and strategic career planning, all vital in today’s interconnected research environment.

What Sets This Program Apart

- Scholars are matched to existing CIFAR research programs, joining teams that explore frontier topics such as human development, urban futures, or societal flourishing.
- Regular in-person and virtual meetings support long-term collaborations and foster a sense of community.
- Emphasis is placed on strategic leadership skills—mentorship, science communication, and public engagement—boosting a scholar’s influence both inside and outside academia.

Who Should Apply? Ideal Candidates and Eligibility

Matching Your Profile to the Program

This opportunity is designed for:

- UK-based early-career researchers in the humanities and social sciences, with a PhD or equivalent by program start.
- Individuals holding full-time academic or research appointments allowing for independent research and the supervision of trainees or students.
- Those who demonstrate a record of intellectual leadership—be it through publications, digital scholarship, public-facing work, or multidisciplinary collaborations.
- Applicants who are actively seeking new perspectives, eager to tackle complex questions with diverse teams.

Core Eligibility Criteria

- PhD (or equivalent) completed, or awarded by April 1, 2026.
- Secure, full-time post-PhD academic appointment in the UK—typically Assistant Professor or equivalent—through March 31, 2028.
- Strong alignment with at least one CIFAR program currently accepting applications.
- Willingness to engage across disciplines, mentor others, and participate in international meetings.
- Fluency in English, and ability to travel as needed for program events.
- Postdoctoral fellows and those without secure appointments for the full 24 months are not eligible.

Expert Tip: Review each CIFAR program’s published themes and outputs carefully, and relate your application to the most relevant initiative.

What You Receive as a CIFAR Global Scholar

Research Support, Mentorship, and Networking

Deep Integration in CIFAR Programs

Scholars engage with active research teams drawn from the world’s top institutions. By taking part in program workshops and regular meetings, you’ll collaborate directly with some of the globe’s leading thinkers—and see how interdisciplinary research unfolds at the highest level.

Robust Mentorship and Leadership Training

Each participant receives tailored mentorship from renowned academics in their field.

Training modules focus on:

- Team leadership and project management
- Mentoring students and trainees
- Communicating complex research to policymakers and the public
- Building and sustaining collaborative research cultures

These experiences are designed to turn talented post-PhDs into recognized thought leaders and effective mentors.

International Exposure and Network Building

Through engagement in the CIFAR community, Global Scholars accelerate their research profile, expand their professional circles, and gain access to new opportunities for high-level panels, cross-institutional projects, and public-facing initiatives.

Financial and Professional Resources

- Unrestricted research grant of $100,000 CAD, usable for research expenses, teaching release, trainee support, travel, and more.
- Opportunities to apply for additional seed funds for innovative collaborations.
- Support that is not tied to a specific project—flexible funding empowers bold, interdisciplinary research directions.

Staying Connected After the Program

Upon completion, scholars gain long-term affiliation with CIFAR’s networks and continued access to resources, alumni events, and collaboration tools.

Program Structure and Timeline

Duration and Key Dates

style="text-align: justify;">The current British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars call is for the 2026–2028 cohort:

- Opening for applications: September 2025
- Deadline for submission: Early November 2025 (5th—applicants must check official pages for updates)
- Program period: April 2026 – March 2028, with annual review points and global meetings throughout.

Typical Application Cycle

- September: Call opens, resources available online.
- November: Deadline for applications.
- February: Shortlisted applicants notified and invited for interviews.
- March: Online interviews conducted.
- April: Successful scholars notified and preparatory workshops commence.
- June: Official program launch with first cohort meeting.
- Following years: Annual integration events, leadership modules, and collaborative projects.

Note: Next cycle is anticipated to follow a similar timeline in 2027–2029, with confirmation expected mid-2027.

Application Process: Step-by-Step

How to Apply—A Practical Guide

1. Identify your preferred CIFAR program—study its research agenda and prepare a statement explaining your ideal fit and projected contributions.
2. Craft a compelling research and leadership statement—describe your prior work, future ambitions, why mentorship and training matter for your development, and how your research informs policy or public dialogue.
3. Demonstrate your track record—include peer-reviewed outputs, digital scholarship, teaching or supervision roles, and examples of interdisciplinary work.
4. Secure strong references—referees should speak to your independence, breadth of vision, and potential for leadership.
5. Check eligibility and finalize details—ensure your institutional appointment, research focus, and documentation all match requirements.
6. Submit through the online portal—all documentation, including letters, must be provided by the published deadline. Double-check your eligibility and program-specific requirements.

Administrative Wisdom

- Applications must use precise formatting and adhere strictly to word or character limits.
- Build in extra time for institutional signoffs and for referees to prepare letters.
- Late or incomplete submissions are rarely, if ever, accommodated.

Pro Tips for Applicants

- Examine recent publications and agendas from each compatible CIFAR program.
- Match your methodology and conceptual approach to the broader research theme and show how you uniquely contribute.
- Structure your writing clearly and use transition words to demonstrate logical flow.

Maximizing Success: Actionable Advice

How to Stand Out in a Competitive Field

- Evidence of interdisciplinarity: Reference past collaborations or works that cut across disciplines.
- Concrete contributions: Identify specific conceptual, methodological, or policy-related leverage you add.
- Vision for leadership: Articulate your training needs and explain how they’ll strengthen your capability as a mentor or team lead.
- Paths to impact: Outline not just potential, but also plausible, routes for your research to influence education, debate, or governmental policy.
- Professional polish: Pay close attention to clarity, consistent formatting, and logical structure throughout.

After Selection: Making the Most of Your Two Years

Selected scholars often thrive by coming prepared to every meeting, pitching well-developed ideas for collaboration, and initiating joint proposals and interdisciplinary projects. They make the most of their mentors’ expertise, regularly attend leadership workshops, and ensure their new skills are transferred back to their home institutions.

Examples of successful outputs include high-impact journal articles, influential policy briefs, and innovative public engagement projects. Staying active within the CIFAR network after program completion opens doors for future grants, partnerships, and ongoing professional support.

The Broader Impact: Why This Matters for the UK and Beyond

The British Academy–CIFAR partnership harnesses national and international strengths, ensuring UK early-career researchers have the platform needed to shape answers to global questions—from social inequality to the ethics of new technologies. For universities, this program seed future leaders able to raise teams and communicate research that resonates well beyond academia. For scholars themselves, it’s an unmatched route to enduring networks, robust mentorship, and global visibility.

Final Takeaway

If you are an early-career, UK-based researcher in the humanities or social sciences, looking for an opportunity to boost your research, leadership skills, and international collaborations, the British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars scheme is one of the most competitive and rewarding routes available. Refer to the official British Academy call page for detailed, live eligibility requirements and deadlines. Updates for the next cycle (expected to follow Spring and Fall timelines) will be published soon.

Quick Facts Table

Feature	Details
Program Name	British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars
Host Country	United Kingdom, with events in Canada and internationally
Funded By	The British Academy, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research
Duration	24 months (April 2026 – March 2028)
Study Mode	Full-time, in-person/virtual hybrid (depending on events)
Eligibility	UK-based PhDs, full-time faculty positions, early-career focus
Financial Support	$100,000 CAD unrestricted grant (+ optional seed grant)
Fields of Study	Social Sciences, Humanities; relevant to respective CIFAR themes
Deadline	05 Nov 2025 – 17:00 GMT
Official Website	Click here

Update Timelines

- Review and Update: Refresh content every 6–12 months; next cohort cycle details and new deadlines will be announced by Summer 2027.
- Ongoing Eligibility Review: Monitor for new CIFAR program themes and expanded eligibility criteria each cycle.
- Best Practice: Internal links should point to past UK-based fellow profiles and application guides, while external links should point to official program info and policy guidelines.

Expert Insights and Backlink Tips

- Host webinars with past fellows and offer their advice in a dedicated sidebar.
- Compile actionable checklists for applicants, such as a submission timeline or reference letter tips.
- Link to foundational research and studies by current CIFAR program leaders (.edu, .gov, and official research sources).
- Reference government policies, research funding statistics, and trends in higher education collaboration for maximum backlink appeal.

Official References

CIFAR—Global Scholars Program

Summary:

The British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars program transforms how early-career researchers in the UK’s social sciences and humanities connect, collaborate, and lead internationally. Applying secures access to flexible funding, expert mentorship, and a vibrant interdisciplinary network, all within a two-year, cohort-based framework designed to launch tomorrow’s academic leaders. Stay tuned for future updates and new application launches—seize the opportunity to elevate your research, skills, and global impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars Program?

It is a two-year, fully funded program for UK-based early-career researchers in the humanities and social sciences that enhances research networks and leadership skills.

Who can apply for the British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars scheme?

UK-based researchers with a PhD and a full-time academic appointment in the social sciences or humanities can apply if they meet program requirements.

What funding does the Global Scholars program provide?

The program offers a $100,000 CAD unrestricted research grant, plus opportunities for travel support, mentorship, and training in leadership.

How do I apply for the CIFAR Global Scholars Program in the UK?

You need to choose a relevant CIFAR research program, prepare application documents, and submit through the British Academy’s official portal by the announced deadline.

When is the deadline for the next British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars call?

The application deadline for the upcoming cycle is usually in November, but check the British Academy’s official call page for the most up-to-date details.

What are the program’s main benefits for early-career academics?

Scholars gain research funding, mentorship, leadership training, and access to international research networks for greater impact and professional growth.

Can postdoctoral researchers or students apply for this program?

No, only researchers with a secure, full-time academic appointment beyond the postdoc level are eligible for this program.

What types of research fields are supported by the Global Scholars scheme?

All disciplines in the humanities and social sciences, especially those aligning with active CIFAR research programs, are supported.

Is the British Academy–CIFAR Global Scholars program competitive?

Yes, the scheme is highly competitive due to its generous funding, mentorship, and international opportunities for early-career academics.