Are you a researcher in humanities or social sciences looking for funding to kickstart a new project? The BA/Leverhulme Small Research Grants offer up to £10,000 for innovative work. This program, run by the British Academy and the Leverhulme Trust, helps postdoctoral scholars advance their ideas through fieldwork, travel, and collaborations.
What Are BA/Leverhulme Small Research Grants?
These grants support primary research projects in humanities and social sciences. They focus on early-stage ideas that can lead to bigger outcomes. Scholars use the funds for data collection, networking, and sharing results.
The program stands out for its flexibility. It backs small-scale projects with big potential. Each grant tops out at £10,000, which fits well for targeted efforts like archive visits or team workshops.
Funding Coverage and Eligible Expenses
The money covers a range of costs tied to research. You can pay for travel and meals during field trips. It also funds access to libraries, databases, and archives.
Other uses include hiring research help, buying materials, or hosting meetings. Workshops and conferences count too. Plan your budget around these areas to make the most of the grant.
Note that salaries and big equipment like computers do not qualify. Keep requests between £500 and £10,000.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Rules
Postdoctoral researchers or those at a similar level can apply. You need ties to a recognized institution or a strong record as an independent scholar. The main applicant must live in the United Kingdom most of the time.
Co-applicants from anywhere in the world are welcome. This setup encourages global teams. Early-career and mid-career academics fit best.
Ideal Candidates for This Grant
Think about applying if you work in a university or research group. Independent scholars in humanities and social sciences also qualify. Teams testing fresh ideas or building data for larger funds will find this useful.
It suits those who want to form networks or try new methods. The grant acts as seed money for projects with clear goals.
Supported Fields of Study
Projects span all areas of humanities, such as history, literature, and philosophy. Social sciences like sociology, economics, and political science qualify too. Mix methods or fields if the work shows real value.
The British Academy values fresh takes and strong evidence.
Project Timeline and Duration
Set your project for at least one month and up to 24 months. Define clear steps, goals, and results upfront. This helps reviewers see your plan in action.
Key Benefits of the Grant
Winning brings prestige from a top funding body. It boosts your profile for future work. The cash lets you shape the budget to your needs.
Global partnerships get a push, even with a UK lead. Many past projects led to publications and bigger grants.
How to Build a Strong Application
Start with a sharp research question. Show why it matters and how it stands out. Outline your methods, timeline, and costs with care.
Reviewers check for quality first. Ties may break even scores. Aim for outputs like papers or reports.
Restrictions to Keep in Mind
Skip PhD thesis funding or salary replacements. No teaching buyouts either. Focus on academic results that advance your field.
Why It Appeals to Global Researchers
UK leads open doors for partners from Africa, Asia, Europe, or the Americas. It funds work on worldwide topics. Join as a co-applicant to gain from UK networks.
Application Deadline
Submit by May 27, 2026. Check the British Academy site for full details and the application form. Act soon to refine your proposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are BA/Leverhulme Small Research Grants?
These grants provide up to £10,000 from the British Academy and Leverhulme Trust for early-stage research projects in humanities and social sciences, supporting fieldwork, travel, and collaborations.
Who is eligible to apply?
Postdoctoral researchers or those at a similar level with UK ties qualify as main applicants, while co-applicants can come from anywhere in the world.
What expenses does the grant cover?
Funds support travel, archive access, hiring research help, materials, and workshops, but not salaries, teaching buyouts, or large equipment like computers.
When is the application deadline?
Applications are due by May 27, 2026; visit the British Academy website for the form and full details.
Conversation
0 Comments