The University of Cambridge is one of the top-ranked institutions in the United Kingdom, and they are looking to bring on some new recruits. The prestigious Career Development Fellowship in International Relations and Security 2026 is now called for at Durham University, and is intended to help develop new scholars in the discipline through a three-year research, teaching and professional development programme.
The fellowship is hosted by the School of Government and International Affairs (SGIA) and provides a formal framework for academics with an interest in International Relations, Security Studies, conflict research, transitional justice and global politics. The programme is a mix of mentorship, teaching experience and research support, aimed at equipping the fellows for long-term careers in higher education and research.
About Durham University
Durham University is a world-class university based in the historic city of Durham in England, which is known for its academic excellence, research impact and world-class teaching standards. The University is consistently placed among the top universities in the UK and is a destination for students and researchers from all over the world.
The School of Government and International Affairs has a distinguished reputation in the areas of:
- International Relations
- Security Studies
- Public Policy
- Global Governance
- Political Science
- Peace and Conflict Research
Fellows also will have opportunities to collaborate with top research institutes such as the Durham Global Security Institute.
Fellowship Overview
Career Development Fellowship is particularly designed to help early career academics develop a strong teaching portfolio, generate high-quality outputs of scientific research, and have the opportunity to cultivate leadership skills within a supportive academic setting.
Fellowship Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Career Development Fellowship in International Relations and Security |
| Institution | Durham University |
| Department | School of Government and International Affairs |
| Location | Durham, United Kingdom |
| Contract Type | Full-Time |
| Duration | 36 Months |
| Working Hours | 35 Hours Per Week |
| Salary | £38,784 – £46,079 Per Year |
| Expected Start Date | 1 September 2026 |
Areas of Academic Focus
Applicants should have experience or an interest in one or more of the following:
- International Relations Theory
- Security Studies
- Global Politics
- Post-Colonial International Relations
- Conflict and Violence Studies
- Transitional Justice
- International Governance
- Peace and Security Research
Teaching and Student Support
Successful fellows will contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate education by:
- Delivering lectures and seminars
- Designing learning materials
- Supporting student development
- Supervising research projects
- Assessing coursework and examinations
- Creating inclusive learning environments
Research and Scholarly Activities
Fellows will be expected to:
- Develop independent research projects
- Publish internationally recognized research outputs
- Participate in conferences and academic events
- Collaborate with research groups
- Contribute to grant and funding applications
- Enhance the department’s global research profile
Academic Service
The position also includes participation in:
- Departmental committees
- Academic administration
- Professional development initiatives
- Interdisciplinary collaborations
- Institutional activities
Structured Career Development Support
One of the most valuable aspects of this fellowship is its dedicated career development framework.
Selected fellows will receive:
Personal Mentorship
Senior academics will provide guidance on:
- Research planning
- Publication strategies
- Grant applications
- Career progression
Professional Training
Participants will have access to:
- Leadership development programs
- Teaching enhancement workshops
- Research impact training
- Academic networking opportunities
Protected Research Time
The fellowship provides a period of time for research, working on a scholar’s academic profile.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications
Applicants should:
- Hold a good undergraduate degree in a relevant field
- Possess a PhD in International Relations, Politics, Security Studies, or a related discipline
- Be within approximately eight years of completing their PhD or be nearing completion
Career breaks for parental leave, health conditions, or other valid circumstances will be considered.
Essential Skills
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong research potential
- Effective teaching abilities
- Excellent communication skills
- Commitment to equality and inclusion
- Ability to contribute to departmental activities
- Evidence of academic excellence
Durham University’s Commitment to Inclusion
Durham University actively promotes diversity and equal opportunities throughout its recruitment process.
The institution welcomes applications from:
- Underrepresented groups
- International candidates
- Researchers with disabilities
- Neurodiverse applicants
- Individuals returning from career breaks
The university also offers reasonable workplace adjustments and accessible recruitment procedures.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following materials:
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A detailed academic CV highlighting qualifications, research achievements, teaching experience, and publications.
Cover Letter
A comprehensive statement explaining:
- Suitability for the fellowship
- Academic achievements
- Research interests
- Teaching experience
Research Plan
Applicants must provide a research proposal of up to two pages outlining:
- Research objectives
- Methodology
- Expected impact
- Alignment with the fellowship’s focus areas
Selection Process
The recruitment process typically involves multiple stages:
Shortlisting
Applications will be assessed against the essential and desirable criteria.
Academic Presentation
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to present their research to staff and students.
Formal Interview
Candidates will participate in interviews evaluating:
- Research potential
- Teaching capability
- Academic vision
- Contribution to the department
Important Dates
Application Deadline
09 June 2026 (1:59 AM)
Interview Dates
06–07 July 2026
Fellowship Start Date
01 September 2026
Contract Duration
36 Months
Benefits of the Fellowship
The Career Development Fellowship offers numerous professional and financial advantages, including:
- Competitive salary package
- 30 days annual leave plus public holidays
- Pension scheme membership
- Dedicated mentorship
- Research funding support
- Teaching experience at a top UK university
- International academic networking opportunities
- Professional development programmes
- Strong pathway toward permanent academic positions
Why Apply for This Fellowship?
The fellowship offers an ideal mix of research freedom, teaching experience and career development for scholars who want to make a mark in academia.
Participants will gain:
- Experience at a globally respected university
- Access to leading researchers and academic networks
- Opportunities to publish impactful research
- Skills necessary for future academic leadership roles
- A competitive advantage in the international academic job market
