Call for Applications: University of Cambridge – Peace, Conflict and Religion Early Career Research Fellowship | Apply By 30 November 2026
Overview
The Cambridge Interfaith Programme, located within the Faculty of Divinity at the University of Cambridge, offers a funding opportunity for early-career researchers focusing on peace, conflict, and religion. The successful candidate receives support to apply for a Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship, with matching funding provided by the Faculty of Divinity subject to selection by the Leverhulme Trust. The fellowship supports independent research projects over a three-year period that advance interdisciplinary understanding of conflict, political violence, and peacebuilding.
Who can apply
Applicants must verify that they meet the eligibility requirements of the Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship scheme before applying. For the current cycle, candidates must have submitted their doctoral thesis for viva voce examination no earlier than 18 February 2023, or must submit their PhD thesis before 18 February 2027. The opportunity is designed for researchers who have completed or are close to completing their doctoral requirements.
What you get
The fellowship provides a three-year structure supporting substantive new research, matched funding from the Faculty of Divinity for the Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship, and mentorship from the Cambridge Interfaith Programme Academic Director. Fellows also participate in seminars, workshops, and academic activities, engaging with an intellectual community focused on interreligious and interdisciplinary inquiry.
Requirements
Applicants must submit an academic CV of maximum two sides of A4, a major publications list of maximum one side of A4 structured under specific headings, a research statement of up to 250 words summarizing past and current research, and a research proposal of maximum two sides of A4 outlining the research question, methodology, objectives, plan, and contribution to the programme. Additionally, applicants must arrange for two references, with one referee normally based outside the University of Cambridge, to be submitted directly to Dr Peter Harland.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted by email to the Faculty Manager, Dr Peter Harland, at pjh42@cam.ac.uk. Referees must also send their reference letters directly to Dr Peter Harland by the stated deadline.
Key dates
The application deadline is 30 November 2026. Doctoral thesis submission requirements must be met by 18 February 2027 at the latest, or no earlier than 18 February 2023 for theses already submitted.