Applications Open for a Chevening Fellowship with the British Library

24 March 2026 | Press Release | By: Louise Fox

Are you a mid-career professional, researcher or academic with a passion for the Caribbean or Atlantic British Overseas Territories? This could be the opportunity you have been waiting for! Applications are now open for a Chevening Fellowship for a candidate with strong knowledge of at least one Caribbean or Atlantic British Overseas Territory (OT).

The successful Fellow will work with the British Library to connect its world-renowned collections with audiences across the Overseas Territories, helping to redefine how the Library collects, preserves and represents these communities. Based in the Eccles Institute for the Americas and Oceania, within the British Library, London, the Fellow will work closely with colleagues across the Library, including the Contemporary British Collections and International departments.

During the fellowship, successful candidates will have the opportunity to:

  • Create a collection guide — either a general overview of the British Overseas Territories or an in-depth survey of a particular Territory.
  • Publish two blogs under the umbrella of a world-renowned institution.
  • Deliver two presentations: a Researcher Packed Lunch session for British Library staff, and a Summer Scholars presentation for a public audience.
  • Produce a report on the current cultural and educational landscape of the British Overseas Territories.

Fellows will also gain first-hand exposure to rare primary sources that may reshape understanding of regional identity and history, along with increased international academic visibility and membership of the prestigious global Chevening Alumni network.

Her Excellency the Governor, Jane Owen, said: "This fellowship is a wonderful opportunity to help shape how the Overseas Territories, including the Cayman Islands, are represented within the British Library's collections. As a Chevening Fellow, you will also become part of a global alumni network of dynamic people who share your experiences and can offer mentorship, advice and contacts for your career." This Chevening Fellowship is co-funded by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the British Library.

Each fellowship offers a 12-month placement at the British Library, including:  Covered living expenses

  • Return economy airfare
  • Allowance for fellowship-related activities
  • Up to £1,000 for approved project-related expenses.

Applications are open until 5 May 2026 at https://asams.chevening.org/apply

With more information available at: chevening.org/news/chevening-is-re-launching-the-british-library-fellowship/ and

Eccles Institute for the Americas and Oceania

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