The Research Fellowship

The Research Fellowship at the Oxford Institute of Interdisciplinary Research (IIR) offers an invitation to explore academic thought and method through focused one-to-one online engagement with leading scholars.

Programs

Frontier Fellowship

The Research Fellowship upholds the Institute’s commitment to scholarly rigor, selectivity, and intellectual integrity. Working individually with a research mentor who has attended a globally recognised university, such as Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, MIT, or Yale, participants engage in a series of tutorials designed to develop analytical precision, methodological awareness, and clarity of written expression.

A Structured Path to Independent Research

Duration:

2 weeks

Contact Hours

10 hours of live academic engagement, including one-on-one tutorials, mentor consultations, and research discussions.

Independent Work

Participants dedicate 20–30 hours to guided reading, writing, and analysis outside mentorship sessions.

Academic Recognition

Upon completion, participants receive a formal certificate and written evaluation recognising intellectual development and scholarly achievement.

Meaningful, Assessed Outputs

Scholars will receive:

Independent Research Paper

A final research essay that is formally reviewed and evaluated by your supervising tutor.

Certification

A formal certificate and written evaluation recognising intellectual development and scholarly achievement.

Tailor-Made Course

Every course we run is bespoke, and designed by one of our expert academic mentors exclusively for each student. This allows us to create the most rigorous course in your area of interest.

Mentor Evaluation Report & Recommendation Letter

Detailed feedback covering research skills, critical thinking, and areas for future growth. You can also request a recommendation letter from your mentor to use in your university applications.

Scholarly Work with Real-World Applications

The Oxford IIR Inquiry Fellowship culminates in a scholarly output designed to mirror authentic academic and professional practices. Through guided mentorship, structured collaboration, and independent inquiry, Fellows contribute to work that reflects first-year college-level expectations and demonstrates their readiness for advanced study. Participants can produce a sole-authored research paper, or develop an applied artifact such as a data visualization or educational tool, and receive a detailed mentor evaluation that verifies the rigor and depth of their engagement.

Examples of Fellowship Research 

STEM

Econ

Policy

Planet in Crisis: Exploring Climate Change from Scientific, Economic, and Ethical Perspectives.
Artificial Intelligence and Society: Balancing Innovation and Regulation.
Global Health Disparities: Historical Roots and Policy Solutions Each theme is designed to stimulate critical thinking across disciplines and to prepare students to tackle complex global challenges.

A Guided Introduction to Academic Inquiry

The Research Fellowship provides a step-by-step path into academic thinking, helping scholars build foundational research skills through structured tutorials and personalised one-to-one mentorship.

Example Timeline (2-Week Program)

Pre-Start

Orientation and review of the Institute’s preparatory materials.

Lessons 1–3

Meet your mentor, define your focus, and explore early ideas within your chosen discipline.

Lessons 4–7

Guided research, evaluating sources, and beginning initial written work.

Lessons 8–10

Development of a structured research text supported by academic evidence.

Post-Course

Receive a detailed evaluation and a formal Certificate of Completion.

A Tailored Research Programme

Your intellectual interests and academic aspirations form the foundation of our approach. Each element of the individual mentorship is carefully designed to align with your specific goals, ensuring a highly personalised academic experience.

Our Academic Team works closely with you to develop a tailored research project and to match you with a mentor whose expertise best supports your objectives.

Programmes may commence at a time that suits your academic schedule. While most fellowships span between two and four weeks, all aspects of the programme remain fully adaptable to ensure the experience is optimally aligned with your needs.

Program Fees and Scholarships

Tuition

£2995

Financial Aid

Means-tested scholarships available; income-indexed tuition plans designed to increase access.

Fee Inclusions

All mentorship sessions, academic evaluation, and issuance of transcripts and certificates.

Apply for the Fellowship

Applications for the next Fellowship cohort are open. Begin your application today by completing the eligibility quiz. 

Admissions

Skills for University and Beyond

Our Fellowship scholars develop research skills, critical discussion abilities, collaborative project experience, and interdisciplinary thinking. These competencies support academic success at university and build confidence for future scholarly or professional pursuits.

Get into your Dream University

Graduates of the IIR Fellowship programs finish their program with a finalised research paper that they can use to support college applications. Accredited andPublication Fellowship students also have 8 UCAS points to support their applications. Publication Fellows will additionally publish their work with an independent high school research journal. These will help you stand out on your university application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can students participate from different time zones?

Yes, students can participate from different time zones. Our online structure is designed to accommodate participants from anywhere in the world.

What level of English proficiency is required?

We recommend a minimum of B2 level (upper-intermediate) English proficiency to ensure students can fully engage with course materials and discussions.

What technology is needed?

Students will need a laptop with a webcam and a reliable internet connection to take part in the program.

Take the Eligibility Quiz

Oxford
IIR