The Slater Fellowship 2026/27 at Durham University is one of the most distinguished academic opportunities available to researchers working in medieval and early modern studies. Hosted at the world-renowned Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies (IMEMS) and fully based at the historic Durham Castle, this fellowship offers a rare chance to spend three immersive months in an environment rich in heritage, scholarship, and unparalleled intellectual resources.
Running during Epiphany Term 2027 (from 11 January to 19 March 2027), the fellowship is designed for scholars seeking uninterrupted time for research, access to world-class archives, and meaningful engagement with an active academic community. Whether you are developing a new research project, finishing a major publication, or looking for collaborative opportunities, the Slater Fellowship provides an ideal environment to elevate your work to the next level.
What the Slater Fellowship 2026/27 Offers
The Slater Fellowship provides a fully supported academic residency intended to remove distractions and create the perfect setting for scholars to focus on impactful research. Fellows benefit from:
1. Fully Funded Accommodation and Board
Fellows reside for a full term at University College in Durham Castle, one of the most iconic collegiate settings in the United Kingdom. Accommodation includes:
- A private double en-suite room
- Full board throughout the stay
- Access to communal academic and social facilities
This supportive living arrangement ensures scholars can dedicate their time to research without logistical concerns.
2. Membership in the Senior Common Room (SCR)
Fellows join the SCR, gaining access to a vibrant academic community filled with historians, literature scholars, archaeologists, and researchers across the humanities. This membership facilitates networking, intellectual exchange, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
3. Access to World-Class Research Collections
Durham offers exceptional research resources, including:
- Durham University Library and Special Collections
- Durham Cathedral Library
- Ushaw College archives
- Regional medieval and early modern collections
These unique collections provide valuable primary materials for scholars working in history, literature, art history, theology, manuscript studies, and related fields.
4. Opportunities to Present Research
Fellows are invited to deliver a seminar or public lecture supported by both the College and IMEMS. This contributes to broader academic dialogue and enhances a scholar’s professional visibility.
5. Integration into Academic and Cultural Life
The fellowship places strong emphasis on community engagement. Fellows may interact with students, participate in events, join research groups, and engage in collaborative activities across the College and Institute.
Eligibility Criteria for the Slater Fellowship 2026/27
The Slater Fellowship seeks outstanding scholars whose work aligns with the core themes of medieval and early modern studies. To apply, candidates must:
- Hold an academic position at a university outside Durham University
- Have active research interests connected to IMEMS focus areas
- Be ready to engage with the University College community and IMEMS activities
- Be willing to acknowledge both University College and IMEMS in resulting publications
- Demonstrate readiness to contribute to student engagement, academic discussions, and scholarly exchange
Encouragement for Under-Represented Groups
The fellowship strongly welcomes applications from:
- Women scholars
- Researchers with disabilities
- Black, Asian, and minority ethnic researchers
- Scholars with career breaks, caregiving responsibilities, or non-linear academic journeys
The selection panel evaluates career context sensitively and equitably.
Application Requirements: What You Need to Prepare
Applicants must submit a complete and well-structured application package, which includes:
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A detailed academic CV outlining:
- Research experience
- Publications
- Awards and achievements
- Teaching experience
- Academic affiliations
2. One-Page Project Summary
This summary should clearly describe:
- Your research focus
- Objectives during the fellowship
- Planned use of Durham’s collections
- Expected outcomes of your stay
3. A 500-Word Engagement Statement
This statement explains:
- How you intend to participate in college and Institute life
- Contributions to academic events, student engagement, or seminars
- Collaborative potential with Durham faculty or postgraduate researchers
4. Alignment With IMEMS Research Themes
Applicants must clearly articulate how their work intersects with:
- Medieval studies
- Early modern studies
- Archival research
- Manuscript culture
- Cultural, political, or intellectual history
Important Note
Candidates are strongly advised to verify the availability of required manuscripts, archives, or primary sources before applying to ensure project feasibility.
Why Scholars Should Apply for the Slater Fellowship
The Slater Fellowship offers benefits far beyond accommodation and research time. Key advantages include:
- Immersion in one of the world’s oldest and most inspiring academic communities
- Unrestricted access to rare archival materials
- Interaction with leading scholars across disciplines
- Prestigious association with Durham University and IMEMS
- A dedicated period to focus on high-impact research or publication
- Professional visibility through lectures, seminars, and community engagement
For scholars working in medieval or early modern studies, a residency at Durham can be transformative—opening doors to new collaborations, research discoveries, and academic opportunities.
Deadline for Application
The last date to apply for the Slater Fellowship 2026/27 is 19 January 2026 (midnight UK time).
Applicants are encouraged to start early, gather all documents carefully, and submit a compelling proposal that reflects originality, feasibility, and strong alignment with IMEMS themes.
