Applications are open for the International Placement Scheme 2026 – Apply Before 19 March 2026

Overview of the Scheme

The International Placement Scheme 2026 is an open funding opportunity designed to support researchers in undertaking funded placements at leading international institutions. The scheme is jointly funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and aims to strengthen global research collaboration, skills development, and international engagement.

Through this programme, awardees are able to gain hands-on experience, access world-class research collections and expertise, and build lasting international networks that enhance the quality and impact of their research.

Key Dates and Funding Information

• Opening date: 7 January 2026 (9:00am UK time)
• Closing date: 19 March 2026 (4:00pm UK time)
• Total fund available: £250,000
• Award range: £6,000 – £16,200
• Placement duration: 2 to 6 months

Each award includes:

• A monthly stipend of £2,500 for the duration of the placement
• A travel and visa allowance of:
  • £1,000 for placements outside Asia
  • £1,200 for placements in Japan or China

Host Institutions

Placements are available at a selection of prestigious international institutions across the United States and Asia, offering diverse research environments and specialist collections.

United States

• Harry Ransom Center
• Huntington Library
• Library of Congress
• Smithsonian Institution
• Yale Center for British Art

Asia

• National Institutes for the Humanities (Japan)
• Shanghai Theatre Academy (China)

Each host institution offers distinct research strengths and facilities. Applicants are encouraged to consult the Additional Information section of the guidance to understand the specific focus, resources, and expectations of each placement.

Purpose and Objectives

The International Placement Scheme seeks to:

• Support high-quality international research engagement
• Enable access to specialist archives, collections, and expertise
• Strengthen interdisciplinary and cross-cultural research collaboration
• Enhance professional development and research leadership capacity
• Increase the global visibility and impact of UK-based research

The scheme is particularly suited to researchers seeking to deepen their methodological expertise, broaden the international dimension of their work, or develop new comparative perspectives.

Eligibility and Applicant Profile

The opportunity is open to eligible applicants who meet standard UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) eligibility criteria. Detailed guidance on:

• Individual eligibility
• Early Career Researcher (ECR) requirements
• Eligible research disciplines

is provided within the official application documentation.

Applicants are expected to:

• Demonstrate a clear academic rationale for the placement
• Show alignment between their research objectives and the host institution
• Articulate the added value of international collaboration

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through the official UKRI application portal. Prospective applicants are advised to review all guidance carefully before applying, including sections on:

• How to apply
• What the funders are looking for
• How applications will be assessed

Applicants may also benefit from attending one of the scheduled informational webinars.

Webinar Schedule

• 21 January 2026: Placement opportunities in the United States
• 28 January 2026: Placement opportunities in Asia

These sessions provide insights into host institutions, expectations, and best practices for preparing a competitive application.

Assessment and Decision-Making

Applications will be assessed according to published criteria, which typically consider:

• Academic quality and originality
• Feasibility and clarity of the proposed placement plan
• Strategic fit with the host institution
• Potential for long-term research impact and collaboration

Funding decisions are made following established UKRI assessment processes to ensure transparency, fairness, and value for money.

Additional Resources and Updates

Applicants are encouraged to regularly check the opportunity page for updates, including:

• Revisions to eligible disciplines
• Updates to available placements
• Clarifications on eligibility or funding conditions

Supporting documents, including PDFs outlining available placements and guidance on good research practice, are available for download.

Why Apply

Participation in the International Placement Scheme offers awardees:

• Funded access to globally recognised research institutions
• Opportunities to expand international research networks
• Enhanced academic profile and career development
• Exposure to diverse research cultures and methodologies

The scheme represents a significant opportunity for researchers to strengthen both individual research trajectories and broader international collaboration.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.