The Visiting Fellowships scheme aims to attract promising early-career researchers in the humanities and social sciences to carry out a short research project with a UK-based partner institution. The scheme is open to any applicant from outside the UK, but priority will be given to candidates from countries which lack the financial resources to support a visit to the UK.

Funding is available for up to £7500 to cover travel and subsistence costs for the visiting fellow while in the UK. Most visits are expected to last between two and six months. The British Academy website offers further tips on the application:

Candidates must demonstrate great promise and show that they would benefit from time to pursue their research in the United Kingdom. The Academy regards the host’s engagement with the visitor as crucial in ensuring a successful visit. Applications will be prioritised where the host demonstrates a strong interest in the visit, where it is clear that the visitor will be well supported and mentored, and where the mutual benefits are explained.

If you are interested in applying, note that there are two separate forms – one for the candidate and one for the UK host institution. Both must by submitted to the Academy by the deadline, 12th January 2009.

Note also that there are two other British Academy Visiting Fellowship schemes, run in conjunction with the ESRC and AHRC to fund collaborations specifically with South Asia, the Middle East and China. Details on this can be found at the main Visiting Fellowships page or in the International Schemes section.