Research Fellow (Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship) in African Studies at the University of Birmingham, UK
The University of Birmingham invites early-career scholars based on the African continent to apply for the Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship in African Studies. The 18-month fellowship supports advanced research, publication, and teaching within the School of History and Cultures.
Overview
The Research Fellow (Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship) in African Studies is a full-time, fixed-term academic position hosted by the School of History and Cultures at the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom. Funded through a specialized endowment, the fellowship enables an eligible scholar to undertake advanced research, publish academic work, contribute to teaching, and participate in the university's wider research community.
The successful candidate will work alongside a mentor to develop an agreed-upon research and publication programme in African History and/or African Studies. The position runs for an 18-month duration with an expected start date of 1 January 2027 and a contract period extending up to June 2028. The appointment is classified as a Grade 7 position with an annual salary ranging from £36,636 to £46,049, with potential progression to £48,822.
Benefits
- Full-time Grade 7 salary ranging from £36,636 to £46,049 per year, with potential progression to £48,822.
- An 18-month research stay at a major UK university to develop academic publications and pursue specialized research in African History.
- Opportunities to design and deliver teaching sessions at both undergraduate and Master's levels within African Studies and History.
- Engagement with an international academic environment, including research seminars, public events, and mentorship.
Eligibility
- Geographic and Institutional Requirement: Applicants must currently be based on the African continent and be either employed by or affiliated with an African higher education institution.
- Doctoral Qualification: Candidates must hold a PhD focused on the history of Africa and/or African diasporas, which must have been examined and passed between 1 June 2021 and 1 June 2026.
- Employment Status: Applicants must either not currently hold a permanent academic position, or provide a formal statement confirming that their home institution will release them for the duration of the Birmingham appointment.
- Academic Capabilities: Candidates must demonstrate active research experience, a strong publication record appropriate to their career stage, and the ability to contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must review the vacancy details and submit their applications through the official online recruitment portal provided by the University of Birmingham. Applications should explicitly highlight the candidate's doctoral qualification date, current African institutional affiliation, publication record, and a convincing research proposal tailored to the fellowship duration.
Applicants should carefully verify their application materials and avoid relying too heavily on generic artificial intelligence tools, as submission materials must accurately reflect their professional background and genuine interest in the role.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted by the stated closing date of 1 September 2026.