The Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford invite applications for their 2027–28 Visiting Fellowships in Special Collections. The fellowships support researchers undertaking independent projects that require access to the libraries’ archival, manuscript and rare-book collections. Research visits must last at least one month.
The programme includes an African Studies Visiting Fellowship for scholars currently affiliated with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa. It supports research into the history of the region using the Bodleian’s African and Commonwealth archives, including collections relating to colonial history, agriculture, education, medicine and anti-apartheid movements.
Eligibility
- Academically affiliated and independent scholars conducting postdoctoral-level research.
- Applicants must demonstrate the need to consult specific materials held in the Bodleian Libraries’ Special Collections.
- African Studies Visiting Fellowship applicants must be affiliated with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Doctoral students must have submitted their thesis before the application deadline and obtained their doctorate before taking up the fellowship.
Funding and Benefits
Successful applicants may receive up to £2,200 per month towards eligible research visit costs, subject to the terms of the award. Fellows gain access to specialised archival resources, opportunities to engage with Oxford’s research community, and potential platforms for sharing their findings through publications, presentations or other public outputs.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the online application form, a CV of no more than three pages, a research project description of up to 1,200 words, and two tailored letters of recommendation. The project description must explain the research significance, identify specific collections to be consulted, outline intended outputs and describe plans for engagement with the research community.
Applications should be emailed to fellowships@bodleian.ox.ac.uk before the stated deadline. Accommodation and UK visa arrangements are the applicant’s responsibility.
Application Deadline: 27 November 2026, 5:00 PM GMT.