The InteRussia Fellowship in Archaeology 2026 invites emerging researchers to step beyond textbooks and into real excavation sites and museum collections in Russia. Designed for hands-on learning, the program blends fieldwork, academic exchange, and international collaboration in a way few short-term fellowships manage to achieve.
Quick Facts
- Host Country: Russia
- Study Level / Job Type: Fellowship (Research & Fieldwork)
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Countries: Post-Soviet countries, Middle East, North Africa, India, Pakistan
- Deadline: April 19, 2026
About the Opportunity
For archaeologists, real insight often comes not from reading reports but from standing at the site, examining artifacts, and engaging with other researchers who see history through different lenses. That’s the space this fellowship tries to create.
Hosted in Moscow, the program places participants within Russia’s academic and research ecosystem, where archaeology is studied across diverse regions and historical layers. Fellows won’t just sit through lectures; they’ll move between museums, archaeological sites, and academic sessions, gaining exposure to both theory and field-based methods.
A strong emphasis is placed on practical work. Participants are encouraged to engage deeply with their own research ideas while interacting with specialists from around the world, fostering a collaborative environment that mirrors real-world academic exchange.
This opportunity is officially offered by Mezhdunarodniki Autonomous Non-Profit Organisation, and applicants should apply through the official application portal.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Hold citizenship from eligible regions (Post-Soviet states, the Middle East, North Africa, India, or Pakistan)
- Reside outside the Russian Federation at the time of application
- Have no academic or employment ties to Russian institutions
- Be between 25 and 40 years old
- Demonstrate English proficiency at B2 level or above
- Possess academic or professional experience in archaeology or related fields
- Be enrolled in a PhD program or already hold a PhD (or equivalent)
- Submit a research proposal aligned with their specialisation
- Provide 2–3 letters of recommendation
- Present a portfolio of academic publications or research work
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Benefits
Participants selected for the fellowship will receive:
- Round-trip international travel to Moscow
- Accommodation in shared hotel rooms
- A stipend of 30,000 rubles for the program duration
- Access to archaeological sites and museum collections
- Participation in expert-led academic sessions and field visits
- Opportunities to collaborate with international researchers
NOTE: Fellows are expected to handle personal expenses such as medical insurance, visa fees, and daily meals.
Who Should Apply
This program is particularly suited for early- to mid-career archaeologists who want to strengthen their research through practical exposure.
It’s a strong fit for those who:
- Are actively involved in archaeological research or doctoral studies
- Want to test or refine a research idea in an international setting
- Value field experience as much as academic theory
- Are interested in cross-cultural collaboration within the discipline
Application Process
To submit your application, follow these steps carefully:
- Register on the English version of the Gorchakov Fund platform
- Navigate to “My Projects” and start a new application
- Select “InteRussia Archaeology 2026” from the list
- Complete all sections of the application form
- Upload your research portfolio and required documents
- Submit your application and confirm the status updates to “Submitted”
How to Apply
Your research proposal plays a central role here; it’s not just a requirement but a reflection of how you think and what you aim to explore. Take time to make it clear, focused, and realistic.
Once everything is ready, proceed through the official application platform and complete your submission.
