Looking to apply your research skills to real-world policy challenges? The British Academy UK Innovation Fellowships 2025 – Route B (Policy-Led) is your gateway to influencing government policy while working at the heart of UK decision-making. This 12-month funded opportunity is tailor-made for early- and mid-career scholars in the humanities and social sciences who want to embed themselves in government departments such as Defra, DESNZ, or GO Science.
Funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), this programme supports the British Academy’s vision of mobilising academic expertise to address sustainability and climate-related public policy needs.
Host Country and Institutions
- Country: United Kingdom
- Fellowship Host: British Academy (with secondments in UK Government Departments)
What Makes This Fellowship Unique
Rather than requiring a detailed research proposal, applicants apply to work on predefined policy themes, collaborating closely with public sector partners to shape impactful initiatives. It’s not about theory alone—it’s about real influence and measurable change.
Benefits of the British Academy Innovation Fellowships
- Award Amount: Up to £120,000 (based on 80% Full Economic Costing)
- Fellowship Duration: 12 months
- Time Commitment: Between 0.4 and 0.8 FTE
- Partner Institutions:
- Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)
- Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ)
- Government Office for Science (GO Science)
- Policy Themes:
- Landscape Recovery
- Public Participation Strategy
- Climate, Society and International
Professional Perks
- Collaborate with policymakers on pressing national issues
- Build networks across government and academia
- Enhance your career through public policy exposure
- Strengthen your profile for future leadership roles
Eligibility Criteria for the Innovation Fellowships
To apply for the Route B Fellowship, you must:
- Be ordinarily resident in the UK
- Be employed at a UK Higher Education Institution or Independent Research Organisation
- Be at the early- or mid-career stage
- Have a position that lasts through the entire award period
- Comply with nationality and security clearance requirements outlined in the official guidance
Nationality:
- Open to all nationalities, provided the applicant meets UK residency and employment requirements
Required Documents for the Application
While the fellowship doesn’t require a full research proposal upfront, applicants will need to submit:
- A completed application form via the British Academy Flexi-Grant Portal
- A statement of interest aligning with one of the policy areas
- CV (highlighting research background and policy engagement, if any)
- Employer endorsement confirming availability for secondment
📄 Note: Check the Scheme Guidance Notes for up-to-date requirements and format.
Application Timeline for the Fellowship
- Scheme Opens: 5 June 2025
- Application Deadline: 6 August 2025 (by 17:00 BST)
- Fellowship Start Window: 1–31 March 2026
⏳ Tip: Start early. You’ll need time to secure internal approval from your institution.
How to Apply for the British Academy Fellowship
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Review the Scheme Guidance Notes
- Understand the policy areas and partner departments.
- Choose a Government Partner
- Select from Defra, DESNZ, or GO Science.
- Prepare Your Application
- Use the Flexi-Grant Portal to submit your materials.
- Submit Before the Deadline
- Deadline is 6 August 2025 at 17:00 BST.
- Await Results and Prepare for Secondment
- Successful fellows will finalize work plans with their selected government partner.
Tips for Success:
- Focus your narrative on policy relevance
- Demonstrate ability to translate academic research into actionable policy
- Show flexibility and collaboration skills
FAQs – British Academy Innovation Fellowships
Q1: Can international scholars apply?
A: Yes, but you must be employed by a UK-based institution and meet residency requirements.
Q2: Is this a full-time fellowship?
A: Not necessarily. Commitment can range from 0.4 to 0.8 FTE.
Q3: Do I need a specific project idea?
A: No. Route B is policy-led, and the work plan is co-developed after selection.
Q4: Can I apply for both Route A and B?
A: Not simultaneously. Only one application per round is allowed.
Q5: Is a PhD required?
A: While not mandatory, applicants are expected to have equivalent research experience.
Final Thoughts on the Innovation Fellowships 2025
If you’re a researcher ready to bridge academia and policymaking, this is your moment. The British Academy Innovation Fellowships offer a launchpad for shaping sustainable futures while gaining rare access to UK government structures.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in the UK and influence real-world policy.