The Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI) has opened applications for its prestigious Visiting Fellowship Programme for 2025-2026. This fellowship provides scholars and professionals with a unique opportunity to engage with EFI’s interdisciplinary research community and contribute to groundbreaking projects shaping the future.
If you have expertise in areas like data ethics, artificial intelligence, creative industries, or participatory governance, this could be the perfect platform to expand your research and collaborate with global experts.
Fellowship Details
Here’s a quick overview of what the EFI Visiting Fellowship offers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | January 23, 2025 |
| Duration | 3 to 6 months |
| Stipend | Up to £1,500 per month for relocation |
| Research Areas | Data ethics, AI, creative industries, fintech, infrastructure, governance, tourism, and more |
| Eligibility | Open to external researchers with institutional or equivalent experience |
| LMIC Support | Additional financial assistance available |
| Application Portal | EFI’s official website |
This fellowship is an excellent opportunity to gain access to cutting-edge research, collaborate with top-tier academics, and contribute to solving real-world challenges.
Why Apply?
EFI promotes interdisciplinary research, encouraging collaboration across various fields:
- Creative Industries & Digital Humanities – Ideal for researchers exploring how art, technology, and culture intersect.
- Data Ethics & AI – Suitable for those working on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and big data.
- Participatory Democracy & Governance – Focused on enhancing civic engagement and policymaking through innovative solutions.
These areas of study are becoming increasingly relevant, and EFI provides a platform to explore them with an expert community.
Financial Support
Fellows receive up to £1,500 per month to help with relocation expenses. Additional support is available for researchers from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), ensuring that financial constraints do not limit access to this prestigious opportunity.
Networking Opportunities
The fellowship offers access to EFI’s vast academic network and University of Edinburgh resources. Fellows can:
- Present lectures and seminars on their research.
- Apply for joint research grants to fund long-term projects.
- Connect with policymakers, industry leaders, and fellow researchers.
These connections can lead to collaborations that extend beyond the fellowship, helping participants make a lasting impact in their fields.
Career and Personal Growth
Fellows are encouraged to share their expertise through mentoring, workshops, and academic collaborations. In return, they help shape EFI’s research direction, ensuring its continued contribution to solving global challenges.
How to Apply
Applicants must:
- Hold an academic position or have equivalent professional experience.
- Not be currently affiliated with the University of Edinburgh.
- Have research interests aligned with EFI’s focus areas, such as fintech, data civics, or tourism innovation.
Application Process
- Find an Academic Sponsor – Applicants need a faculty member from the University of Edinburgh to support their research. To find a sponsor:
- Browse faculty directories to identify researchers in your field.
- Contact them with a clear explanation of your project and its alignment with EFI’s mission.
- Prepare Application Materials – A complete application should include:
- Research Proposal – Outline your project, its objectives, and its contribution to EFI.
- CV or Resume – Highlight relevant achievements and interdisciplinary work.
- Letters of Recommendation – Provide references that demonstrate your ability to collaborate and contribute.
- Submit Online – Applications must be submitted through EFI’s website before the January 23, 2025 deadline. Ensure all materials are complete and reviewed before submission.
Selection Criteria
Candidates are selected based on:
- The relevance of their research to EFI’s focus areas.
- Their potential to contribute to the academic ecosystem through lectures, mentoring, or collaborative initiatives.
- Their ability to work across disciplines and create impactful research.
This fellowship is an incredible opportunity to advance your research, collaborate with experts, and make meaningful contributions to the future of academia and industry.
FAQs
Who can apply for the EFI Visiting Fellowship?
Researchers and professionals with institutional or equivalent experience outside the University of Edinburgh.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts between 3 to 6 months.
Is financial support provided?
Yes, fellows receive up to £1,500 per month for relocation expenses.
What research areas does EFI focus on?
EFI focuses on data ethics, AI, fintech, creative industries, governance, and more.
How do I find an academic sponsor?
Browse University of Edinburgh faculty directories and contact a relevant expert in your field.
