University of Edinburgh-Cara Fellowship Programme

The University of Edinburgh works in partnership with the Council for At-Risk Academics (Cara) to host academics who are at risk of persecution, conflict or displacement. Through this programme, academics are supported to continue their research in a safe and stable academic environment.

Fellowship details

The University hosts a number of Cara fellows each year as visiting researchers, typically for up to two years.

Fellows are based within an academic department and supported by a University supervisor to carry out agreed research. Alongside their research, fellows can engage in wider academic and professional development opportunities.

Education Beyond Borders (EBB) provides additional support to fellows and their families throughout their time at the University.

Funding and support

Support is tailored to individual circumstances, but typically includes:

  • financial support administered by Cara
  • support with visa and relocation costs
  • initial accommodation on arrival
  • access to academic support and University facilities
  • ongoing pastoral and practical support from the EBB team

Full details of funding and support are provided through Cara.

Eligibility

Cara fellowships are open to academics who:

  • are at risk due to conflict, violence or political circumstances
  • have experience working in higher education or research
  • hold relevant academic qualifications or equivalent research experience
  • are able to continue their academic work in English

All applications are assessed by Cara in the first instance.

Learn about Cara's eligibility requirements

If a placement at the University of Edinburgh is confirmed, Cara will support you through the visa and relocation process. 

The University will normally sponsor fellows under the UK Government Authorised Exchange visa for the duration of the placement.


How to apply

Applications for a Cara fellowship at the University of Edinburgh are managed by Cara.

If you are seeking support, you should begin by completing the initial enquiry form on the Cara website. If your application progresses, Cara will work with you to identify potential host institutions.

If the University of Edinburgh is identified as a possible host, the University will assess whether it is able to offer a placement based on academic fit and capacity.

Learn more about the application process

Important information

  • Placements at the University of Edinburgh are limited and depend on factors such as academic fit and availability. As a result, we are not able to guarantee a fellowship placement at the University.
  • All applications must go through Cara.
  • The University is not able to accept direct applications for Cara fellowships.

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