Develop leadership skills and drive social change
The Cumberland Lodge Fellowship is a unique two-year programme for emerging changemakers. We offer 10 places each year for doctoral students and early career professionals ready to tackle social division and build more inclusive communities.
Why apply for this Fellowship?
Designed to fit around your research or career, the Fellowship provides:
- Networking with policymakers, academics, and industry leaders.
- Skills development in public engagement, interdisciplinary working, and ethical leadership.
- Mentorship from senior figures via our partnership with Windsor Leadership Trust.
- A £300 Personal Development Grant to fund projects promoting social cohesion.
You will join a growing international and intergenerational alumni network committed to strengthening social cohesion through dialogue.
Who can apply?
We welcome applicants resident in Greater London.
- Postgraduate Fellows: currently enrolled on a doctoral programme at a London university.
- Industry Fellows: within five years of starting your career. In particular, we seek early career professionals from tech, AI, finance, the charity sector, and the creative industries.
Selection is based on leadership potential, intellectual curiosity, connection to our core programming, and a clear commitment to working for social cohesion.
Fellowship structure
First-year Fellows:
- Annual Fellows’ Retreat (September)
- Minimum of one workshop or conference at Cumberland Lodge or with partners
- Contribute a blog and/or engage on our community platform, Circle
Second-year Fellows:
- Annual Fellows’ Retreat (September)
- Minimum of one workshop or conference
- Produce a Dialogue & Debate webinar or podcast (individually or collaboratively)
Additionally, Fellows receive mentoring, can develop facilitation skills, take on weekend duties at the Lodge, and attend free events like Cumberland Conversations and the London Dialogue. We cover all meals, accommodation, and London travel expenses for required activities.
Ambassadorial role
As a Fellow, you act as an ambassador for Cumberland Lodge – speaking about our work within your networks and helping build sustainable partnerships. Our annual reunion and Fellows’ Retreat support this.
How to apply for the 2026-28 Fellowship
Download and complete the relevant application form below, and return it with your CV to programmeteam@cumberlandlodge.ac.uk.
Deadline: 9am, Monday 1 June 2026
Interviews (online via Teams): 30 June or 1 July 2026
Due to high volumes, we cannot provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants, therefore if you have not heard from us by 15 June 2026, please assume you have not been shortlisted.