Bodleian Visiting Fellowships 2027–2028 at the University of Oxford: Funding of Up to £2,200 per Month for International Researchers

Overview

The Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford offer visiting fellowships designed to allow researchers from outside the university to carry out independent research projects using special collections, particularly at the Weston Library in Oxford. The programme supports research across disciplines such as history, literature, music, the history of science, cultural studies, African studies, religious studies, and the study of books and communication. Fellows undertake research visits lasting at least one month within the fellowship year, which runs from 1 August to 31 July. During their stay, fellows may be invited to present their work-in-progress formally or informally, and they are encouraged to consider publishing their findings in the Bodleian Library Record.

Who can apply

The programme is open to researchers from outside the University of Oxford. Specific named opportunities include the African Studies Visiting Fellowship, which requires applicants to currently hold an affiliation with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa to research the history of the region. Other named strands include the Albi Rosenthal Visiting Fellowship in Music and the Ann Ball Bodley Visiting Fellowship in Women’s History, the latter of which is offered in association with Hertford College. Applicants do not necessarily have to select a specific named fellowship during application submission, as successful proposals can be allocated to the appropriate strand. Candidates must have a clearly defined research question and explain why the Bodleian collections are necessary to answer it.

What you get

Successful applicants receive funding of up to £2,200 per month towards eligible costs associated with the research visit, unless a particular fellowship states otherwise. The exact amount depends on eligible expenses, payment methods, and personal circumstances, and payments may be subject to UK tax and National Insurance. This support is provided for a research visit rather than as a salary or employment contract. The Bodleian Libraries do not arrange accommodation for fellows, though they may provide guidance on local listings.

Requirements

Proposed research visits must normally last a minimum of one month, and visit dates must be agreed upon with the Bodleian Libraries. Applicants are responsible for determining their UK visa requirements and securing appropriate travel permission. Prospective applicants must prepare a realistic budget covering accommodation, meals, local transport, and other costs, and confirm eligible expenses and payment arrangements before making financial commitments.

Key dates

The listed opportunities are for the 2027–2028 fellowship cycle. Research visits must take place within the fellowship year running from 1 August to 31 July.