funding: salary £36,636–£46,049/year
location: Birmingham
host: University of Birmingham
duration: 18 months
source-url: https://www.globalsouthopportunities.com/2026/07/27/birmingham-3/
apply-url: https://edzz.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_6001/job/9655/?utm_medium=jobshare&utm_source=External+Job+Share
The University of Birmingham's School of History and Cultures has opened applications for a Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship in African History, an 18-month research position. The fellowship is specifically designed for scholars working at African universities, with 1 position available. The role centers on high-quality research, publications, and teaching in History and African Studies.
Overview
The Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship is funded by an endowment to enable staff at sub-Saharan African universities to spend time at the University of Birmingham. The fellowship is limited to applicants currently based in Africa and affiliated with an African Higher Education Institution.
- Research area: African History and/or African Studies
- Contract duration: 18 months (full-time, fixed term until June 2028)
- Salary: £36,636–£46,049, with potential progression to £48,822
Eligibility
Applicants must currently be based on the African continent and affiliated with an African Higher Education Institution. They must have a PhD in African History and/or African diasporas, examined and passed between 1 June 2021 and 1 June 2026.
- PhD focused on the history of Africa and/or African diasporas, examined and passed between 1 June 2021 and 1 June 2026
- Currently based on the African continent and employed by or affiliated with an African Higher Education Institution
- Must not currently hold a permanent academic position, or submit a statement confirming their home institution will release them for the appointment period
Funding & Benefits
- Salary: £36,636–£46,049, with potential progression to £48,822
- 18-month research position at the University of Birmingham
- Opportunity to contribute to undergraduate and Master’s-level teaching in African Studies and History
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the University of Birmingham's official careers portal. Candidates can contact Juliet Gilbert at [email protected] for informal enquiries.
- Submit application through the University of Birmingham's careers portal
- Include a convincing, achievable research and publication proposal in African History
- Provide evidence of research activity and publications appropriate to their postdoctoral career stage
Why This Matters
The Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship is a competitive opportunity, with only 1 position available. The fellowship's deliberately targeted eligibility structure and funding by an endowment demonstrate the University of Birmingham's commitment to supporting African scholars and promoting research in African History and African Studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The Cadbury Postdoctoral Fellowship is designed to enable staff at sub-Saharan African universities to spend time at the University of Birmingham, conducting research and contributing to the university's academic environment.
Can I apply if I am not based in Africa?
No, the fellowship is limited to applicants currently based on the African continent and affiliated with an African Higher Education Institution.
What is the expected outcome of the research project?
The fellow is expected to produce high-quality research and publications in History and/or African Studies, and contribute to the teaching delivery of History and African Studies programmes.
How do I submit my application?
Applications should be submitted through the University of Birmingham's official careers portal.
Can I use AI tools to write my application?
The University of Birmingham advises against relying too heavily on AI tools, as applications should demonstrate genuine interest and the applicant's own communication style.
What is the deadline for applications?
The application deadline is 1 September 2026, 12:59 AM.