Shape Policy, Drive Change: British Academy Innovation Fellowships 2025 (Policy‑Led, Route B)
About the Fellowship
Supported by the British Academy in partnership with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this scheme invites awardees to work within government departments such as the Cabinet Office (National Security Secretariat) on policy-oriented projects. The 12‑month fellowship begins between January and March 2026, with the call opening on 5 June 2025 and applications closing on 6 August 2025 at 17:00 BST
Fellowship Benefits
Awardees receive funding of up to £120,000 per year based on 80 per cent Full Economic Costing, supporting research activities and professional engagement. Time commitment ranges between 0.4 to 0.8 FTE, enabling flexibility for university or organizational duties while working alongside policymakers
Who Should Apply
Ideal candidates are UK‑based early‑ or mid‑career researchers affiliated with a higher education or independent research organisation. A long‑term appointment extending at least through the fellowship duration is required. Applicants should also satisfy security‑clearance and nationality provisions specified in the scheme guidance notes
Focus Areas
Research proposals should align with thematic areas covered by host departments. Route B – Policy‑Led (Sustainable Futures) focuses on engagement with:
Defra on landscape recovery, DESNZ on public participation strategy, and GO Science on climate‑society interfaces. Fellows collaborate closely with host divisions to shape final scope post‑award
Timeline & Key Dates
Applications become available from 5 June 2025, with a deadline of 6 August 2025 at 17:00 BST. Fellowship awards will start between 1–31 March 2026 and run for one year