The University of Cambridge is offering a unique opportunity for early-career scholars through its INT Academic Career Development Fellowship. This prestigious three-year program focuses on Global Politics and International Relations, with a special emphasis on the Middle East, North Africa, or South Asia. It provides a platform for promising academics to advance their research, contribute to teaching, and become part of a leading global academic community.
This fellowship is designed to support individuals with strong research potential and a clear vision for their future in politics and international studies. The successful candidate will be based in the Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) and will also be a Fellow at Girton College, immersing themselves in both departmental and collegiate academic life. The position begins on September 1, 2026, and is not renewable.
About the POLIS Fellowship at Cambridge
The Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) at the University of Cambridge is well-regarded internationally for its work in political science, international relations, public policy, and area studies. The Academic Career Development Fellowship specifically aims to support scholars whose research significantly contributes to the understanding of global politics and international relations, particularly concerning the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) or South Asia. Becoming a Fellow at Girton College, known for its active and welcoming academic atmosphere, adds another dimension to this opportunity.
Fellowship Structure and Responsibilities
The fellowship involves a division of responsibilities between two key parts of the University of Cambridge. Approximately 70% of the role is based within POLIS, while the remaining 30% is at Girton College. Within POLIS, about 40% of the fellow’s time is dedicated to protected research activities. The rest of the time at POLIS will be spent on teaching, overseeing examinations, and other academic service duties. At Girton College, the fellow will take on agreed teaching responsibilities, with student supervision duties typically not exceeding 80 hours per year.
Research and Academic Expectations
Cambridge is looking for candidates who show a strong and promising academic profile. Applicants must demonstrate expertise in global politics and international relations, specifically related to the MENA or South Asia regions. A solid record of publications and research, suitable for their career stage, is required. Candidates also need to present a clear and compelling future research agenda and show they can contribute to the development of their subject area at Cambridge. This fellowship is especially suited for emerging scholars aiming to establish themselves as leaders in international politics and regional studies.
Teaching Responsibilities
The selected fellow will be actively involved in teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This includes delivering lectures, leading seminars, supervising students, directing studies, and participating in examinations. Strong communication abilities are essential, as is the capacity to work effectively within a multidisciplinary academic setting. The role requires a commitment to engaging with students and contributing to the educational mission of the department and college.
Collegiate and Administrative Contributions
Beyond research and teaching, fellows are expected to contribute to the governance and administration of the department. They will also participate in the collegial life of POLIS and engage in academic activities at Girton College. Collaboration with other scholars across the wider University of Cambridge network is also encouraged. This environment offers a rich setting for interdisciplinary work and academic networking, fostering professional growth and the exchange of ideas.
Benefits of the Cambridge INT Academic Career Development Fellowship
This fellowship offers significant professional and academic advantages for researchers in the early stages of their careers.
1. Prestigious Cambridge Appointment
Successful candidates join the academic community of one of the world’s most respected universities, gaining international recognition and access to extensive resources.
2. Dedicated Research Time
The fellowship includes protected time specifically for research, which is crucial for scholarly productivity and developing publications. This allows fellows to focus on their independent research projects.
3. Teaching and Mentorship Experience
Participants gain valuable experience in teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This experience is vital for developing pedagogical skills and preparing for future academic positions.
4. Fellowship at Girton College
The successful applicant will become part of a supportive and dynamic collegiate academic community, offering opportunities for mentorship and collegial interaction.
5. International Academic Exposure
Cambridge provides access to leading researchers, global academic networks, conferences, and collaborative projects, broadening the fellow’s academic horizons.
6. Career Advancement
The fellowship is specifically designed to strengthen the academic career path of emerging scholars, providing a strong foundation for future success.
7. Competitive Salary
The position offers a competitive salary, with a range of £37,694 to £46,049, reflecting the importance and demands of the role.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this fellowship, applicants must meet several requirements. They should hold a PhD in a relevant discipline and demonstrate clear expertise in global politics or international relations concerning the MENA or South Asia regions. Evidence of strong research achievements and excellent teaching and communication skills are also necessary. Applicants must be capable of working both independently and collaboratively and be able to contribute to a multidisciplinary academic environment.
Diversity and Inclusion
The University of Cambridge is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. They actively encourage applications from individuals across all backgrounds and from diverse groups. Applicants from underrepresented backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply for this fellowship.
Work Eligibility Requirement
All employees at the University of Cambridge must be eligible to live and work in the United Kingdom. International applicants need to ensure they meet all UK immigration and employment requirements before applying. This is a standard requirement for all positions within the university.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit their applications online through the University of Cambridge recruitment portal. Applicants will need to register an account, complete the online application form, and upload all required academic and professional materials. When corresponding about the role, applicants should use the reference number UE49748.
Important Dates
The deadline for applications is midnight on Thursday, June 4, 2026. Interviews for shortlisted candidates are expected to take place on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. It is important for applicants to note these dates and ensure their applications are submitted on time.
Contact Information
For any questions regarding the role itself, candidates can contact Professor Duncan Kelly via email at [email protected]. For inquiries related to the application process, please email [email protected]. These contacts can provide further clarification on specific aspects of the fellowship.
Why This Fellowship Is Highly Competitive
The fellowship system at the University of Cambridge is globally recognized, and this particular opportunity offers an excellent platform for emerging scholars to build independent academic careers. The combination of protected research time, teaching experience, a collegiate fellowship, international recognition, and access to Cambridge’s extensive scholarly network makes this one of the most sought-after early-career academic positions in political science and international relations. Scholars focusing on geopolitical dynamics, governance, international diplomacy, conflict studies, regional politics, or comparative political systems in the MENA and South Asia regions are particularly well-suited for this role.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the INT Academic Career Development Fellowship at Cambridge?
It’s a three-year program for early-career scholars in Global Politics and International Relations, focusing on the Middle East, North Africa, or South Asia, offering research, teaching, and collegiate experience.
What are the main responsibilities of the fellow?
The role involves about 70% in the Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) for research and teaching, and 30% at Girton College for teaching and collegiate duties.
Who is eligible for this fellowship?
Eligible candidates must have a PhD in a relevant field, demonstrate expertise in global politics/international relations concerning MENA or South Asia, and show strong research and teaching potential.
What is the application deadline and interview date?
The application deadline is midnight on Thursday, June 4, 2026, with interviews for shortlisted candidates scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
