Each year we host a small number of outstanding scholars from around the world. 

Visiting scholars conduct their own research during their stay, while benefiting from the unique intellectual support and resources of our world-leading Department.  

Benefits: 

• contribute to the research life of the Department
• collaborate with leading experts in sociology
• access University of Cambridge networks and libraries
• shared workspaces (we don’t assign dedicated workspace to visiting scholars)
• attend departmental seminars, lectures and other events
• use of a temporary University of Cambridge email address
• join social events hosted by the Newcomers and Visiting Scholars community 

Eligibility:  

• a PhD and an established research record
• a post at an academic institution, or with equivalent practice-based or professional experience. We don’t provide tuition to postdoctoral researchers.   
• a scholarly link to the Department: a research collaboration or a need to access University resources
• self-funded: we do not provide funding for, or help in finding, accommodation, travel or living expenses. The University of Cambridge Accommodation Service can provide useful guidance on finding suitable housing. 

Application essentials: 

1. Develop a clear research plan for your proposed visit including possible collaborations. How will your work complement and enhance our research environment?
2. Your application must be sponsored by a member of the University of Cambridge Department of Sociology staff.  It is preferred that this is a permanent member of staff. Contact a potential sponsor to agree to your visit in principle.
3. Identify the preferred duration of your visit: from one term up to one year.  
4. Plan your visit to coincide with one or more of the University's terms: Michaelmas (October–December); Lent (January–March); and Easter (April–June). See exact dates. We need a clear explanation for the proposed duration and timing. The visit must be for 1 month or more, and for no more than 12 months.
5. Complete a visiting scholar application formwith input from your staff sponsor.
6. If you have visited the department before, and are requesting to return, applications will only be accepted if the visit starts at least 12 months after the end of the previous visit.
7. Apply at least one term before you are planning to visit. There are 3 deadlines per year: 1 November, 1 February and 1 July.  
8. Submit your application form and an up-to-date CV to enquiries@sociology.cam.ac.uk
9. If your application is successful, you will need to source your own funding and accommodation. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the appropriate visa.   

Fees  

Visiting Scholars pay £200 per month, £600 per full term, or £2,400 per year (plus VAT). 

Any costs associated with a Certificate of Sponsorship application are added to the fee. Fees are payable in advance. 

Find out more about fees

Confidentiality 

The Department of Sociology uses your personal information to process your application to be a Visiting Scholar and to administrate your visit if your application is successful. 

Your name and contact details will be held by the Department of Sociology in secure digital and hard copy files, and will be circulated to appropriate governance committees and staff for consideration. Unsuccessful applicants’ details will be held on file for two years, and successful applicants’ information for six years. Research Committee minutes and papers are held for five years from the end of the year the Committee was held in, and then considered as part of the archival process of the University. 

Read more information about how we handle your personal information, and your rights under data protection legislation.