Early Career Research Network in Philosophy | London 20-21 April 2026

The research, innovation and funding landscape is complex and changing rapidly. Philosophers must often compete for funding against researchers in many different disciplines, frequently in contexts geared towards STEM subjects.

Increasingly more is expected of researchers, not just in terms of research and teaching, but also in terms of contributions to public discourse, exchange of knowledge with other sectors, and impact on wider society.

The Early Career Network is here to help junior philosophers across the UK navigate the funding terrain, establish connections for collaboration, and gain the vital skills required to launch an academic career.

The Workshop

The Institute of Philosophy at the University of London, School of Advanced Study will host the third annual Early Career Network Workshop at the Senate House in London, on 20th and 21st April 2026.

The workshop will bring together junior and senior philosophers, including grant-winners and panel members, and consist of talks on Applying for Funding, Navigating the Research and Innovation Landscape, Working with the Media, Collaborative Working, and Preparing for the Academic Job Market. There will be the opportunity to join together with other workshop participants to form a team to bid for Innovation Project Funds to fund novel proposals.

Who Can Apply

We invite applications from early career philosophers who have not yet secured a permanent academic position.

In particular, we would like to invite current postdoctoral researchers on fixed-term contracts, funded by grant-making institutions (such as the AHRC, Leverhulme Trust and British Academy), and scholars who are close to completing, or who have recently completed, a doctoral degree in philosophy, and who intend to apply for such postdoctoral funding.

Besides the seed grants, we have some limited, needs-based funds to defray the costs of travel and accommodation. We highly encourage applicants to seek funding from their home institution – often made available for training and development. On the evening of the 9th May there will be a reception and dinner for all attendees, free of charge.

Funding 

We are offering 5 bursaries up to £100 each to help with travel expenses for the conference. Priority for funding will be given to those who submit an application by 27th March. 

Please use the link to apply.