About the British Academy
The British Academy is the UK’s national academy for the humanities and social sciences, established by Royal Charter in 1902. We mobilise these disciplines to understand the world and shape a brighter future.
Mobilising the humanities and social sciences
From artificial intelligence to climate change, from building prosperity to improving well-being – today’s complex challenges can only be resolved by deepening our insight into people, cultures, and societies. We invest in researchers and projects across the UK and overseas, engage the public with fresh thinking and debates, and bring together scholars, government, business, and civil society to influence policy for the benefit of everyone.
Funding
Investing in research – we distribute funding to support UK and international academic research, career development and wider engagement across the humanities and social sciences. In 2024/25 we awarded around £70 million in research funding to academics. We have also developed an Early Career Researcher Network which has over 6,000 members to support academics at this vital stage of their career.
Events
Engaging the public – we promote ideas and achievements in the humanities and social sciences through events, talks, videos, podcasts, and our annual Summer Showcase.
Policy and research
Influencing policy – we provide knowledge, expert insight, and space to explore the context, meaning and practicalities of the challenges facing society today.
Our people
President and Fellows of the British Academy
The President of the British Academy is Professor Julia Black PBA. The Fellowship comprises over 1,700 leading national and international academics, elected for their distinction in the humanities and social sciences.
Chief Executive and Senior Management Team
The Chief Executive is Hetan Shah. He is supported by five Directors with the functional portfolios of Resources, Communications, Development, Policy, and Research.
Our Building
The British Academy occupies No. 10 and No. 11 Carlton House Terrace – beautiful premises built in 1831 to designs by John Nash. The Academy has an extensive art collection which is displayed throughout the building. https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/about/
