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2025/2026 Visiting Fellowship at Edinburgh Futures Institute – Are You Eligible? Apply Now!

The Edinburgh Futures Institute is offering a prestigious Visiting Fellowship for 2025/26. Open to academics and professionals worldwide, this program provides financial support, unparalleled networking opportunities, and a chance to engage in interdisciplinary research. Applications close on 23 January 2025. Visit the EFI Visiting Fellowship Programme for details.

By Vophie Wilson
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The 2025/2026 Visiting Fellowship at Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI) is now accepting applications, offering a unique opportunity for researchers and professionals to collaborate with one of the most innovative and interdisciplinary academic communities in the world. If you’re seeking a chance to expand your horizons, contribute to groundbreaking research, and immerse yourself in a dynamic intellectual environment, this fellowship is tailor-made for you.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from eligibility criteria to application tips—ensuring you have all the information needed to seize this opportunity.

Through this fellowship, participants gain not only a deeper understanding of their own research topics but also the chance to collaborate with global experts across varied disciplines, making it an enriching academic and professional journey.

Visiting Fellowship at Edinburgh Futures Institute
Visiting Fellowship at Edinburgh Futures Institute

2025/2026 Visiting Fellowship at Edinburgh Futures Institute Now Available: Check Eligibility Criteria:

FeatureDetails
Program Duration3 to 6 months
Financial Support£1,500/month (relocation costs), travel and visa expenses reimbursed
EligibilityOpen to academics outside the University of Edinburgh with relevant career experience
Application DeadlineMidnight (GMT), 23 January 2025
Research AreasCreative industries, data ethics, fintech, public sector, infrastructure, tourism, and more
Additional SupportSpecial assistance for applicants from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)
Official WebsiteEFI Visiting Fellowship Programme

The 2025/2026 Visiting Fellowship at Edinburgh Futures Institute is an exceptional opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research, collaborate with world-class experts, and contribute to meaningful societal change. Whether you’re an academic or a professional, this fellowship can be a transformative step in your career.

What Is the Edinburgh Futures Institute?

The Edinburgh Futures Institute, a cornerstone of the University of Edinburgh, specializes in interdisciplinary research aimed at tackling some of the world’s most complex challenges. From the ethics of artificial intelligence to sustainable tourism, EFI leverages a blend of academic expertise and real-world application to foster innovation.

Why is EFI unique? Its mission is rooted in collaboration—bringing together experts from diverse fields to address societal challenges. The visiting fellowship program reflects this ethos by welcoming scholars and professionals who can contribute to and benefit from this rich intellectual ecosystem.

EFI also offers state-of-the-art facilities, from advanced data labs to creative collaboration spaces, ensuring that visiting fellows have the tools and resources necessary to excel in their work. Beyond research, the institute actively engages with the public through community events, workshops, and open lectures, fostering a culture of shared knowledge and inclusivity.

Why Apply for the Visiting Fellowship?

1. Unparalleled Networking Opportunities

As a visiting fellow, you’ll have access to EFI’s interdisciplinary community. This includes leading academics, industry professionals, and policymakers. Such connections can lead to long-term collaborations, co-authored publications, and new research directions.

Engaging with professionals from diverse sectors also provides fresh perspectives that can enrich your work and potentially open doors to unexpected opportunities.

2. Support for Research and Development

Receive financial assistance of up to £1,500 per month to support your stay, along with coverage for travel and visa expenses. This allows you to focus entirely on your research without financial strain.

Fellows also have access to additional resources such as library facilities, technical support, and exclusive research databases, enabling them to make the most of their time at EFI.

3. Enhanced Professional Profile

Participation in the fellowship can significantly bolster your academic and professional reputation. Fellows are encouraged to contribute to lectures, seminars, and collaborative projects—amplifying their impact.

Moreover, the inclusion of this prestigious fellowship in your portfolio signals your engagement with high-impact, interdisciplinary research, which can set you apart in competitive academic and professional environments.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:

  1. Academic or Professional Standing
    • Hold an open-ended position in an academic institution.
    • Equivalent professional experience and qualifications are also considered.
    • Must be based outside the University of Edinburgh.
  2. Diverse Representation
    • Applications are strongly encouraged from individuals in LMICs and underrepresented groups. Diversity and inclusivity are at the core of EFI’s mission, making this an ideal opportunity for those who bring unique perspectives to their work.
  3. Research Alignment
    • Projects must align with one or more of EFI’s key research themes:
      • Creative industries and digital humanities
      • Ethics of data and AI
      • Financial services and fintech
      • Public sector innovation
      • Sustainable tourism

How to Apply for Visiting Fellowship at Edinburgh Futures Institute

Step 1: Identify Your Research Interest

Start by aligning your research project with one of EFI’s key areas. This will demonstrate your relevance and potential contribution to EFI’s goals. Explore EFI’s previous projects and publications to better understand its approach to research.

Step 2: Secure an Academic Sponsor

You must have a sponsor within the University of Edinburgh who shares your research interests. Reach out to potential sponsors early, providing details about your project and its relevance to EFI. Personalizing your communication and clearly articulating your objectives can greatly enhance your chances of securing a sponsor.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application

Your application should include:

  • Research Proposal: Clearly outline your project, objectives, and alignment with EFI’s themes. Include potential outcomes and how they align with EFI’s vision for interdisciplinary research.
  • CV: Highlight your academic achievements, publications, and relevant experience. Be sure to include any prior interdisciplinary or collaborative work to showcase your suitability.
  • Letter of Support: From your academic sponsor at the University of Edinburgh. Ensure that your sponsor’s letter emphasizes the mutual benefits of your collaboration.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Applications must be submitted by midnight (GMT) on 23 January 2025. Late submissions will not be considered. Make sure to review your application thoroughly and ensure all required documents are included.

Step 5: Await Notification

Selected applicants will be informed by the end of February 2025. Begin preparations for your visit, including travel and accommodation arrangements. Consider connecting with current or past fellows to gain insights into making the most of your time at EFI.

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FAQs About the EFI Visiting Fellowship

1. Who Can Apply?

Any academic or professional with relevant experience and a research interest aligned with EFI’s key themes can apply, provided they are based outside the University of Edinburgh. Applicants from underrepresented groups and LMICs are especially encouraged.

2. What Is the Duration of the Fellowship?

Fellowships last between 3 to 6 months and must coincide with an academic semester. Flexible scheduling may be discussed in special cases.

3. Is Financial Support Available?

Yes. Fellows receive £1,500 per month for relocation costs, along with travel and visa reimbursements. Additional support is available for LMIC applicants. This financial backing ensures fellows can fully focus on their research during their stay.

4. Do I Need to Have a Research Sponsor?

Yes. You must secure a sponsor from the University of Edinburgh before applying. Sponsors act as your primary contact and collaborator during the fellowship. Building this relationship is crucial for a successful application.

5. How Competitive Is the Application Process?

Given EFI’s reputation, the fellowship is highly competitive. A strong application aligning closely with EFI’s research themes will improve your chances. Ensure your proposal is clear, concise, and demonstrates a strong alignment with EFI’s mission.

Author
Vophie Wilson

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