British Academy Interdisciplinary Research Projects 2026

The British Academy Interdisciplinary Research Projects 2026 is a funded, two‑year research program that supports interdisciplinary projects led by UK‑based researchers in the humanities and social sciences. Funded by the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), the initiative encourages collaboration between SHAPE (Social Sciences, Humanities, and the Arts for People and the Economy) and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) disciplines. Research must address at least one of four thematic areas: Earth system governance, digital and other transformative technologies, global health, or outer space governance. Each project may receive up to £300,000 to cover project expenses, travel, fieldwork, networking, and personnel costs. The program is suitable for early‑career, mid‑career, postdoctoral, or senior researchers based in the UK; participation of at least one international Co‑Applicant is mandatory.

Eligibility:

• Principal Investigator (PI): UK‑based, humanities or social sciences researcher, postdoctoral level or above, employed at a UK institution for the full award period, and able to commit a minimum of 20 % of working time to the project.
• Co‑Applicants: At least one international partner (all nationalities, including Azerbaijan) representing a different disciplinary background (SHAPE or STEM).
• Projects must demonstrate meaningful interdisciplinarity and align with one or more of the four thematic areas.

Program Dates:

• Application deadline: 17 September 2025
• Earliest project start: 1 March 2026
• Project duration: up to 24 months

Program Coverage/Benefits:

• Up to £300,000 per project (paid)
• Eligible costs: PI and Co‑Applicant time, postdoctoral assistance, travel, fieldwork, networking, collaboration, and associated research expenses
• No tuition fees or participant charges
• No specific provision for living allowance or health insurance stated

Required Documents:

• Institutional affiliation confirmation for the PI
• Project proposal addressing eligible themes and interdisciplinarity
• CVs for PI and all Co‑Applicants
• Detailed budget plan
• Additional documentation as requested in the online application form

Application Process:

• Submit applications online via the British Academy’s Grant Management System (Flexi‑Grant)
• Register on the platform, complete all sections, and upload required documents
• Ensure submission before the 17 September 2025 deadline

Important/Additional Information:

• Only UK‑based researchers may serve as Principal Investigators; international partners participate as Co‑Applicants
• Proposals without demonstrable interdisciplinarity or alignment with the specified thematic areas will be ineligible
• Full commitment for the award duration is expected; part‑time or double funding arrangements are not mentioned
• For queries, consult the British Academy website or the Flexi‑Grant helpdesk.