By Nneka Nwogwugwu
The Graduate Attachment Scheme is offering recent African graduates with an opportunity to advance their research interests in the humanities and social sciences.
The three-month stint, hosted by the British Institute in East Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, will equip applicants with practical research experience and networking opportunities.
Selected applicants will:
- Develop their research interests using the BIEA’s well-stocked library for literature review.
- Gain hands-on research experience in Eastern Africa, including archival research, site visits, and research assistance on historical, archaeological, anthropological, political science or legal projects.
- Establish international connections with early-career and established researchers.
- Acquire administrative experience by assisting in organising events and supporting daily insitute activities.
- Enrol in Kiswahili classes at beginner, intermediate or advanced levels (if needed).
Duration
The scheme will run in two cohorts: July – September 2025 and September – November 2025.
Benefits
The BIEA will cover:
- Round-trip travel to and from Nairobi.
- Visa costs (if required).
- A monthly stipend for the duration of their attachment.
- Assistance in identifying suitable accommodation if needed.
Eligible Criteria:
- Have a strong academic record and be in their final undergraduate year or a master’s student intending to proceed to PhD.
- Demonstrate experience in studying or researching about Africa with a clear interest in further academic development in this area.
- Show initiative and be willing to assist with research projects and data analysis.
- Be based in either the UK or Eastern Africa (covering 18 countries from Sudan to Mozambique).
- Not have received previous awards from the BIEA.
How to Apply
To apply, visit the BIEA website
The Graduate Attachment Scheme, organized by the British Institute in East Africa (BIEA) in Nairobi, offers recent African graduates an opportunity to gain practical research experience and build international connections in the humanities and social sciences. Over a three-month period, participants can access BIEA's resources, engage in research projects across various disciplines, and partake in administrative activities. Participants may also take Kiswahili language classes at different levels. The program, running in two cohorts from July to September and September to November 2025, covers travel expenses, visa costs, provides a stipend, and assists with accommodation.
Eligibility requires a strong academic record, an interest in African studies, and residency in the UK or Eastern Africa. Applicants must also intend to advance to PhD studies and not have previously received BIEA awards. Application details can be found on BIEA's website.
