SIS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 | Study in the UK or Ireland

The Society for Italian Studies (SIS) is proud to launch its inaugural Postdoctoral Fellowship for the academic year 2025–2026. This unique opportunity is designed for early-career scholars in Italian Studies based in the UK or Ireland.

The fellowship supports scholars in transforming their PhD thesis into a book-length publication. It provides financial backing, academic resources, and professional mentorship.

Fellowship Highlights

• Duration: 1 year (2025–2026)

• Location: Any UK or Irish university with an Italian Department, chosen by the candidate

• Funding:

  • £19,237 (outside London)

  • £21,237 (within London)

  • £500 relocation allowance for candidates moving to a new institution

• Payment: Paid in two instalments directly to the fellow

• Additional Support: Travel and relocation expenses included

• Health Insurance: Arranged independently by the fellow

Key Fellowship Expectations

• Fellow must reside at the host institution throughout the fellowship (visa and residency rules apply)

• Required non-stipendiary visiting status for access to university facilities

• Active participation in departmental activities and academic life

• Mentorship and integration into the host department

• PhD viva must be completed and approved on or after May 9, 2023

Eligibility Criteria

• Completed PhD in Italian Studies from a UK or Irish university

• Research must demonstrate clear potential for book publication

• Open to applicants of all nationalities

• Applicant must not already hold a postdoctoral position based on the same research

• Willingness to be hosted at a UK or Irish institution and comply with related visa conditions

Benefits

• Annual stipend of up to £21,237, aligned with the AHRC PhD maintenance grant

• £500 relocation grant for candidates changing institutions

• Access to office space, academic resources, and university networks

• Mentoring from leading Italian Studies scholars

• Full integration into a vibrant academic community

Application Requirements

To apply, candidates must prepare and submit the following:

1. Project Proposal (1,000 words): Detailing the proposed book, its significance to Italian Studies, and publication strategy

2. Host Support Statement (500 words): From the Head of Department at the chosen host institution, outlining mentorship and departmental integration

3. Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)

4. References: Contact information for two academic referees

5. Submission: Email all documents to Chiara Giuliani, SIS Secretary, at chiara.giuliani@ucc.ie

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Friday, May 9, 2025, by 12:00 noon (UK/Ireland time)

• Results Announced: By Friday, June 6, 2025

• Fellowship Begins: September or October 2025

Why Apply?

The SIS Postdoctoral Fellowship is an outstanding opportunity for early-career scholars in Italian Studies to publish their doctoral research and gain invaluable experience within a supportive academic environment. This fellowship combines funding, mentorship, and access to top-tier research facilities in the UK or Ireland.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic career and share your research with the world, apply now for the SIS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025.