AKO UAL Storytelling Research Fellowship 2026/2027: Research Opportunity in Popular Culture

The AKO UAL Storytelling Research Fellowship 2026/2027 is now open for applications. This programme supports research into how popular culture influences social and environmental change. It is ideal for individuals interested in popular culture and making a difference through their work.

Application Closing Date: September 11, 2026

Location: London, UK (for in-person meetings)

Programme Duration: Nine months

Stipend: £19,425 (pro rata, subject to PAYE and National Insurance)

Minimum Qualification: Not specified, but requires right to work in the UK and fluency in English.

Opportunity Type: Research Fellowship

About the AKO UAL Storytelling Research Fellowship

This fellowship is a collaborative effort between the UAL AKO Storytelling Institute and the Power of Pop Fund at Comic Relief. Its main goal is to build a stronger understanding of how popular culture, across various media like television, film, games, music, and social media, can create meaningful social and environmental change. The research conducted is expected to be rigorous and practically useful for creatives, funders, civil society organizations, and campaigners.

The fellowship aims to deepen the understanding of how popular culture affects beliefs, attitudes, and public discussions. It supports original research into the ways stories contribute to social and environmental change. The insights gained are intended to benefit those who produce cultural content, as well as those in social justice organizations, commissioning, funding, and research roles.

About UAL AKO Storytelling Institute

The UAL AKO Storytelling Institute is dedicated to exploring the power of storytelling. It fosters research and practice that examines how narratives shape our understanding of the world and drive social impact. The institute supports projects that combine academic rigor with public engagement.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

This fellowship focuses on original research into the impact of popular culture on social and environmental change. While specific research areas are not listed as separate opportunities, applicants are expected to propose their own original research projects within this broad theme.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful fellows will benefit from a nine-month employment contract, working two days per week (0.4 FTE). This position comes with an annual salary of £48,563, with the payable amount for the nine-month contract being £19,425, subject to standard deductions. Fellows will also receive guidance through workshops and a closing symposium, providing opportunities to share learning and connect with others in the field.

Programme Duration and Location

The fellowship spans nine months, beginning in November 2026. While the research can be conducted remotely, fellows must be able to attend the kick-off meeting and a mid-point workshop in person in London.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the AKO UAL Storytelling Research Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Possess the right to work in the UK for the entire duration of the fellowship.
• Be available to attend mandatory in-person meetings in London.
• Commit to the full nine-month programme.
• Propose an original research project focused on the impact of popular culture and social change.
• Ensure that the proposed research outputs have not been previously published.
• Be fluent in English.

Competencies Required

Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in the impact of popular culture and a commitment to making a difference through their research. Key competencies include:

• Ability to design and deliver research projects.
• Strong analytical and writing skills.
• Interest in social and environmental change.
• Excellent communication skills for public-facing dissemination.
• A professional attitude towards research and collaboration.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for individuals who are passionate about popular culture and its potential to drive social and environmental change. It suits those who have a background in research or a strong interest in developing original research projects. If you are fluent in English, have the right to work in the UK, and are eager to contribute to a better understanding of how stories shape our world, this opportunity is for you.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following documents as part of their application:

• A Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A record of previous research outputs, with links provided where available.
• A research proposal, with a maximum word count of 1000 to 1200 words.
• A supporting statement that includes at least one example of a research project you have designed and delivered.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply for the AKO UAL Storytelling Research Fellowship 2026/2027 through the provided online portal. Ensure all required documents are prepared and submitted accurately before the closing date.

Click here to apply for the AKO UAL Storytelling Research Fellowship 2026/2027.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility requirements, including the right to work in the UK and availability for in-person meetings. Late applications will not be considered.

Closing Date

The application deadline for the AKO UAL Storytelling Research Fellowship 2026/2027 is September 11, 2026.

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