Norah Fry International Visiting Scholar Scheme

Call for applications

Deadline: Monday 26th October 2026

Overview

The Norah Fry Centre for Disability Studies invites applications from researchers based at non-UK institutions to spend up to six weeks at University of Bristol working with Centre members on a defined research objective. The scheme is designed to support collaboration, build international research networks, and enrich the Centre’s research community.

Visiting Scholars will be supported to spend focused time within the Norah Fry Centre and the School for Policy Studies, benefiting from a highly interdisciplinary, research-intensive environment and active scholarly community.

The scheme will see the successful applicant work in collaboration with one or more Norah Fry members to progress a clearly defined research objective, such as drafting a publication, developing a funding proposal, or undertaking data analysis.

What we offer

Successful applicant will be appointed as Norah Fry Centre International Visiting Scholars for a period up to six weeks (academic year 2026/27) and will receive:

  • A contribution towards travel and accommodation costs up to £5,000;
  • Visiting Scholar status at the University of Bristol (with access to relevant University facilities, e.g., library, workspace).

Who can apply

Applicants should:

  • Hold a PhD (or have successfully completed their viva by the application deadline) in disability studies or a related discipline, such as social policy;
  • Be based at a non-UK institution;
  • Demonstrate research interests aligned with the Norah Fry Centre’s work in disability studies (e.g., disability policy, disability law, health and social care, inclusive education, social security, disability rights and co-production);
  • Propose a clear, feasible objective that is research focused and may realistically be advanced during a six-week visit.  

Funding

A contribution of up to £5,000 will be awarded to cover:

  • International return travel to Bristol;
  • Accommodation costs in/near Bristol;
  • Essential research-related costs directly linked to the agreed objective;
  • Funding will not cover stipend/salary or subsistence. 

How to apply

  1.    CV (2-page max)
  2. Project outline (approximately 2-page): outline the proposed research activity; explain how this work will be enhanced by placement within the Norah Fry Centre and the School for Policy Studies; suggest how you might contribute to the Centre’s academic community, e.g. delivering a research seminar. Applicants should also include an estimated outline of itemised costs (e.g. flights, accommodation, visa costs).

Please note:

Selection criteria

Applications will be assessed on:

  • Alignment with the Norah Fry Centre’s research interests;
  • Quality and feasibility of proposed plan of work;
  • Mutual benefit (collaboration potential and contribution to Centre’s research culture).

For informal enquiries, please email t.porter@bristol.ac.uk.