Applications are now open for the African Studies Visiting Fellowship 2027-28 at the University of Oxford, offering scholars affiliated with universities in Sub-Saharan Africa an opportunity to undertake research using the world-class Special Collections held by the Bodleian Libraries in Oxford. The fellowship is designed for scholars whose research focuses on the history of Africa and who would benefit from access to the extensive archival and special collections available in Oxford. The application deadline is 27 November 2026, making this an important opportunity for eligible researchers and academics to begin preparing their applications. About the African Studies Visiting Fellowship The African Studies Visiting Fellowship is offered by the Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford through the Africa Oxford Initiative. The programme invites scholars affiliated with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa to conduct research into the history of the region using materials held within the Bodleian Libraries’ Special Collections. For researchers working on African history, archival access can be an important component of developing new research, producing scholarly publications and deepening understanding of historical developments across the continent. The fellowship provides an opportunity for selected scholars to work directly with relevant collections in Oxford while engaging with an international academic research environment. Who Can Apply? The fellowship is specifically aimed at scholars affiliated with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa. Applicants should have a research project that would benefit from access to historical materials and Special Collections held by the Bodleian Libraries. The opportunity may be particularly relevant to academics and researchers working in areas such as African history, historical studies, archival research and related disciplines. Candidates should carefully review the official fellowship information to confirm the complete eligibility requirements, application conditions and supporting documents required for the 2027-28 fellowship. Research at the Bodleian Libraries The Bodleian Libraries are among the major research library resources associated with the University of Oxford. Their Special Collections contain historical materials that can support research across numerous academic fields. For African Studies scholars, access to archival and historical resources can provide an opportunity to investigate original materials, develop new interpretations and strengthen research outputs. The visiting fellowship therefore offers more than an opportunity to spend time at Oxford. It can provide researchers with access to resources that may be difficult to consult from their home institutions. Successful applicants will be able to focus their research within an internationally recognised academic environment while making use of the collections relevant to their projects. Why This Fellowship Is Important Researchers across Africa often face challenges accessing specialised international archives and collections, particularly when important historical sources are held outside their home countries. Opportunities that facilitate access to major research collections can therefore play an important role in strengthening African scholarship and supporting researchers whose work contributes to a deeper understanding of the continent’s history. The African Studies Visiting Fellowship provides an opportunity for scholars based in Sub-Saharan Africa to connect their research with resources available at Oxford and potentially develop work that contributes to wider academic discussions about Africa. The fellowship may also provide valuable exposure to an international research environment and opportunities for scholarly engagement. Fellowship Details at a Glance Fellowship: African Studies Visiting Fellowship 2027-28 Host institution: Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford Research focus: History of Sub-Saharan Africa Eligible applicants: Scholars affiliated with a university in Sub-Saharan Africa Location: Oxford, United Kingdom Research resources: Bodleian Libraries Special Collections Fellowship period: 2027-28 Application deadline: 27 November 2026 The announcement provided does not specify the financial value or whether the fellowship covers travel, accommodation or other expenses. Applicants should consult the official fellowship information for the complete funding and support details. How to Apply Eligible scholars interested in the African Studies Visiting Fellowship should review the official fellowship announcement and application instructions before submitting their applications. Application details: View the official fellowship information and application details Applicants should carefully review the requirements and prepare all requested materials well before the deadline. For questions relating to the fellowship, applicants can contact the Bodleian Libraries at fellowships@bodleian.ox.ac.uk. Researchers should also ensure that their proposed work aligns with the fellowship’s focus on researching the history of the region through the Special Collections available in Oxford. Application Deadline The deadline to apply for the African Studies Visiting Fellowship 2027-28 is 27 November 2026. Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their materials early to allow sufficient time to review their research proposal and complete the application process. A Valuable Opportunity for African Researchers The African Studies Visiting Fellowship offers an important opportunity for scholars connected to universities in Sub-Saharan Africa to access specialised research resources at one of the world’s leading academic institutions. For researchers whose work depends on historical and archival sources, spending time with the Bodleian Libraries’ Special Collections could provide valuable material for advancing research projects, publications and broader academic contributions. Interested scholars should therefore review the official requirements and determine whether the fellowship fits their research plans before applying. 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