Early Career Story Fellow Opportunity: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Host organisation? Do I get to choose who I work with?
There are nine Host organisations that cover a range of fields from institutions of heritage to public establishments. Each Host organisation has defined a problem, ambition or mission that they think Story Skills can help to address. Applicants can choose which of the nine project briefs they want to apply for and will have to engage with the specified challenge in their application.
Do we apply to work with a specific Host?
Yes, you will need to choose which Host organisation you would like to work with. You are welcome to submit applications for multiple projects (see the next FAQ, for further information on how to approach multiple applications).
During the application, there will be questions to assess your suitability for the StoryArcs Programme and for the individual Host organisation project you have chosen. In your application, you should mention how you would tackle the challenge set by the Host, and how your current skill set would best support and expand upon the project. To be successful, you need to demonstrate that you match the criteria for the StoryArcs Programme as well as the Host organisation project.
Can I apply for multiple Host organisation projects if more than one appeals to me?
Yes, you can apply for more than one project, but we recommend limiting yourself to a maximum of three and/or only applying for the projects that align with your skills, experience and interests. There are two ways to apply to multiple projects:
Submit separate applications for each project, ensuring a tailored approach for each Host. (You are welcome to copy and paste your answers to the application questions that are not specific to the Host organisation project.)
Alternatively, indicate interest in additional projects in Section 3. If you do not meet the criteria for your first choice, we may reach out to ask you to complete a form for another Host project.
You can find out more about each project brief on the website.
If we apply and are not successful with our preferred Host, would you suggest us for another Host?
In the event that we believe your application is a stronger fit for a project that you have not applied for, we may contact you to invite you to apply for this alternative and complete a new application for that specific Host. On your application, there is space to indicate whether you would like us to consider you for other Host projects in this scenario.
The outcome is determined by who is the best fit for the projects. If you are not the right fit for the Host projects, there may be future opportunities we can recommend to you, such as upcoming short-term host projects or storytelling training opportunities.
If you are not successful with any of the Host projects, it may not be the end of the road: there will be other ways for you to be involved with StoryArcs. Please indicate on your application if you would like us to contact you about future opportunities.
When does the role start and finish?
This year’s Fellowship will start in February 2025. The roles will last a maximum of 14 months and must finish by March 31st, 2026.
Will Story Fellows lead on storytelling, or will they facilitate others to tell stories?
It depends on the setting and the needs of the Host organisation: each project is unique, requiring different Story Skills. We advise you to read the job description carefully to understand what is required.
Will I be working in-person or remotely?
Each project brief varies and requires different levels of in-person or remote working. Please see each individual project for more information.
Are only UK citizens eligible to apply?
You need to have the Right to Work in the UK when applying for the Early Career Story Fellow position. You can apply from abroad if you have the Right to Work in the UK, but it would be advantageous to be based in the UK depending on the Host’s requirements regarding in-person working.
Do we need to apply for a Host near to where we're based, and if not, do we get travel expenses?
Most of the nine projects are hybrid, but each Host has different requirements regarding remote and in-person working. You can apply for any of the Hosts regardless of where you are located in the UK, but it is important you read their requirements and ensure these align with yours. The projects have a budget to provide travel expenses within reason, however we do not have a relocation budget.
Do Hosts or the Programme have research expenses?
Yes, StoryArcs will provide a small budget for expenses. Some of the Hosts will be providing travel budgets/covering expenses, etc. Partner Universities will also be providing research equipment/expenses.
Do I need to have an academic Mentor to apply?
The projects are all connected to a Partner University. If you are successful in your application, you will be assigned a Mentor by the Partner University. The Mentor will be matched to you via the Partner University based on the project and their professional expertise. The one exception to this is the Tomorrow’s Warriors project, which is left open for the Story Fellow to nominate a Partner University of their choosing; this will usually be a university with which the Fellow has an existing relationship.
What will be my work status?
Host projects in partnership with University of the Arts London (UAL) and University of Nottingham are offered on an employed basis.
Host projects in partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University are offered on a contracted supplier/freelance basis.
How close to the Host’s brief do I have to stay when proposing, defining and delivering my project?
Each of the nine Hosts provides a specific problem for which they seek someone with Story Skills to help find a solution. Applicants are free to approach the problem from any angle they wish within the realms of the project brief, utilising their expertise and experience. Ultimately, each application will be assessed by whether it provides a solution to the Host’s problem, can be delivered within the chosen timeframe, meets quality and industry standards, and provides measurable benefits while also fitting the aims and themes of the StoryArcs Programme.
I have other commitments/childcare duties/additional needs. Can I still apply to become a Story Fellow?
The StoryArcs Programme is committed to giving every individual applicant the same chance to become an Early Career Story Fellow, regardless of background or personal circumstances.
Successful applicants will take up the role as a 12-14-month part-time position, offering flexibility around other commitments. We are fully committed to supporting a successful applicant in negotiating any reasonable arrangements, e.g. accessibility needs and special work patterns, with the respective Host organisation.
Who should I talk to if I have any work-related concerns as a Story Fellow?
Primarily, Duty of Care for Story Fellows will be the responsibility of the Partner Universities employing or contracting the Story Fellows for the duration of the placement. However, any issues relating to Health and Safety, or access requirements, will be held under the auspices of the Host organisation. In the unexpected case that a dispute should arise between different stakeholders which cannot be resolved independently, Bath Spa University will provide the organisational framework for an arbiter to step in to resolve the dispute.
Can I leave the Programme at any point in time due to unforeseen circumstances?
If you are selected by a Host organisation, you will sign a contract with a Partner University. Since the placements are project-based, it is essential that you are committed to completing them. However, there will be provisions allowing you to exit the Programme if specified unforeseen circumstances occur.
What are the time commitments for each role?
We offer £37,999 pro-rata for 12- 14 months part-time work (2.5 days). Two days per week are spent specifically on the Host organisation project whilst the regular half day will be connecting to the StoryArcs Programme, through developing research outputs, collaborations, Deep Story Training Camp attendance, etc.
For Cardiff Metropolitan University, you will be commissioned on a supplier basis for 12-14 months based on an agreed Schedule of Work. You will be compensated according to agreed-upon terms of a freelance contract with a grant of approximately £28,815 for 130 working days at £220 per day (12-14 months), in accordance with Cardiff Metropolitan University's grant-giving/supplier regulations.
What does Pro-rata mean?
Pro-rata means ‘proportionally’. A pro-rata salary is an amount of pay based on what you would earn if you were to work full-time for a year.
How long will the placement run?
Your contract will run for 12-14 months (depending on when you start), which will comprise 11-12 months with the Host organisation placement and 1-2 months working with the StoryArcs team finalising outputs. Your project must finish by March 31st, 2026.
Do you have a timeline for assessing applications/interviews/making decisions?
The application portal closes midnight on Monday 18th November.
Please note: we have had a high volume of interest in the Programme so we may need to adjust these dates to allow time for consideration of all applications.
I have a PhD and work as a freelance practitioner but have almost no traditional publication record. Will that impact my application?
Not necessarily. In addition to exploring the theme of Story, this Programme is about supporting alternative career paths for Early Career Researchers.
If you do not have a PhD but have experience in producing work for the public domain, e.g. an exhibition, artwork, radio show, consultation reports shared with organisations, books or films, etc., these could be considered as suitable options if the total portfolio constitutes at least four years of work.
Would the fact that I finished my PhD ten years ago exclude me? Is the ‘Early Career’ definition based on age?
Not necessarily. When we provide information to help the development of Early Career Researchers (ECRs), we are speaking to anyone who defines their role as that of an ECR.
The definition of an Early Career Researcher is focused on the stage you are in within your research career, rather than on your age.
For the purpose of grants eligibility for most of their schemes, the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) usually describes an Early Career Researcher as someone who is either:
- Within eight years of their PhD award (this is from the time of the PhD ‘viva’ oral test), or equivalent professional training.
- Within six years of their first academic appointment (the first full or part-time paid employment contract that lists research or teaching as the primary function).
These periods exclude any career break, for example due to:
- Family care.
- Health reasons.
- Reasons related to COVID-19 such as homeschooling or increased teaching load.
This means that if you have had a career break you could still be an Early Career Researcher for up to 15 years after finishing your PhD.
The Programme is designed for someone at an early stage of their research career. The important thing to note here is that you (the applicant) define whether or not you consider yourself to be an Early Career Researcher. You will not be ruled out because you do not fit a fixed definition of what an Early Career Researcher is.
You will, however, need to demonstrate why this position will help you in your career, and tell us what you hope to gain from it.
In the Job Description you say that anyone with a PhD or Equivalent can apply. Can you explain a bit more about what counts as equivalent experience?
A PhD typically involves four years of focused research, culminating in a thesis of publishable quality. ‘Equivalent experience’ means you should have at least four years of relevant professional work, with outcomes that demonstrate a comparable level of creative expertise and critical inquiry in fields related to the project or projects for which you are applying.
This could include substantial roles in either academic or creative domains where independent research, critical inquiry, and original contributions are essential. For example, you might have experience as a researcher, lecturer, writer, filmmaker, or artist, having developed original work to a high standard—whether through published research, professional exhibitions, or completed creative projects that have been shared publicly.
We seek candidates who can demonstrate a similar depth of inquiry and rigour as a PhD, including experience in research or creative practice, defined as a ‘process of investigation leading to new insights that are shared with others.’ Your application should highlight these experiences and illustrate how they align with the analytical approach expected at the PhD level.
The scheme seems to be placed between creative and analytical skills. How much of a creative response are you looking for in the projects, rather than a purely analytical approach?
Most placements involve leading a project with a creative focus, though each project is unique and will call for a blend of creative, analytical, and operational skills. This mix allows you to apply your expertise flexibly and to respond to the project’s particular demands with an approach that feels authentic to you.
From a research perspective, we’re particularly interested in how creative, analytical, and operational Story Skills intersect and complement each other within projects. However, we don’t expect you to demonstrate every skill at this stage. Instead, we’re looking for candidates with a broad skillset who can effectively deliver on project goals, with the freedom to define how and when they apply specific skills throughout.
The application has two parts. In the first part, focus on demonstrating your suitability for the Programme by highlighting your unique blend of skills. In the Host-specific section, identify the skills you’ll draw on to address the challenge, noting that some projects will require more creative responses and others more analytical approaches. Use this space to show how you would balance these elements within the project’s context.
Could you provide more detail on the process of developing the project from the initial brief? How much development is expected from the Host and how much from the Fellow?
There isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to this process. You’ll have the freedom to shape the project according to your skillset and the nature of the Host’s needs. Some Fellows may wish to specify particular outputs for their projects, while others may focus more on detailing their approach and methodologies. Both approaches to pitching are equally valid and will depend on what aligns best with the specific objectives and expectations of the Host.
What are your thoughts or preferences regarding the storytelling methodologies and artforms that could be utilised?
The choice of storytelling methodologies and artforms for each project is intentionally flexible, enabling you to draw from both your existing skills and the specific needs of the Host challenge. You’re encouraged to apply a combination of techniques tailored to meet the project’s objectives, whether that involves narrative construction or analytical approaches that enhance understanding and engagement. For most projects, you’ll be expected to consider the perspectives and needs of project participants and/or the intended audience, ensuring the storytelling approach is both relevant and impactful.
At the Programme level, StoryArcs emphasises the adaptability and transferability of Story Skills across a variety of environments, from corporate and educational to community-focused settings. The Programme’s goal is to showcase these skills’ broad applicability, positioning storytelling as a collaborative tool for tackling contemporary challenges. With the adaptable Story Skill Set framework, participants are encouraged to use methodologies and artforms that authentically reflect their expertise and have a strong likelihood of meeting the Host’s project objectives.
Ultimately, the success of your application will depend on how effectively your chosen methods, artforms, or approach align with the specific goals of the Host challenge, showcasing your unique skill set and creative vision.
Please can you expand on what a Story Skill Set is? It suggests something repeatable – or is it simply methodology in creating new forms of narratives.
A ‘Story Skill’ refers to the know-how or competency in specific aspects of storytelling or analysis, and these skills can be grouped into sets, much like elements on the periodic table. The Story Skill Set is a comprehensive taxonomy that categorises various archetypal storytelling forms, techniques, and skills. Developed by Professor Bambo Soyinka, the Director of StoryArcs, this resource serves as a guide for understanding and applying storytelling skills in areas such as leadership, decision-making, and cultural development.
Soyinka's Story Skill Set is organised into four key domains, each focusing on a different facet of storytelling and outlining a related set of skills. Individuals typically possess a unique blend of skills and uses the Story Skill Set in a way that reflects their personal style. They can express these storytelling skills in various forms, including writing, speaking, analysis, filmmaking, or through other media. Moreover, each new project or collaborative endeavour requires a fresh pathway through the Skill Set.
Think of the Story Skill Set as an experiment in the fundamental chemistry of storytelling. Each domain represents a different element from the periodic table, each with its unique properties and potential reactions. Just as a chemist carefully combines elements to create new compounds, storytelling experts can blend their skills—such as keen observation, characterisation, world-building, and rhythm—to craft compelling narratives. Each narrative project is like a new experiment, requiring precise selection and adaptation of these skills to achieve the desired outcome. By understanding how these storytelling "elements" interact, experts can create rich and engaging stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
The long-term objective of the project is to create resources that help employers and organisations recognise the value of storytelling skills and the diverse ways in which storytelling can be performed. To achieve this, the StoryArcs team will collaborate with Hosts and Story Fellows to further expand and refine the concept of the ‘Story Skill Set’.
Could you elaborate on how and when the findings related to the Story Skill Set will be compiled and shared?
This project spans three years and is set to conclude in March 2026. While comprehensive findings will be disclosed at the end of this period, some outcomes may be shared publicly beforehand through various channels.
Story Fellows will take a leading role in their individual projects, overseeing the analysis and representation of their work. In their capacity as consultant storytellers, they will serve the needs of the Host by crafting narratives that align with the brief and are tailored to specific audiences. This involves applying their Story Skills to create impactful and engaging stories. As narrative researchers, each Story Fellow will reflect on their unique blend of skills and how they are applied within their projects. They will aim to leave the Programme with single author works (including written pieces, blogs, or other media) that showcase their individual voice and expertise. Additionally, they will contribute to case studies (which may be co-authored) that illustrate the effectiveness of these skills.
Beyond their project-specific leadership roles, Story Fellows will support Professor Soyinka by providing formal and informal feedback on the Story Skill Set and insights that inform broader project outcomes. To deepen the understanding of how the Skill Set is being utilised and interpreted, Professor Soyinka, in collaboration with Dr. Ella Harris, will conduct interviews with the Story Fellows at three key points throughout the project. These interviews will focus on their use of the Skill Set, challenges faced, and reflections on their projects, helping to refine and enhance the taxonomy of the Skill Set.
Together with Dr. Harris, the StoryArcs team, Story Fellows, and our Partners, Professor Soyinka will also brainstorm additional strategies for presenting the Programme’s findings comprehensively. Emerging insights and final results will be presented and compiled in various formats, including the i-Story, blogs, academic journals, and podcasts. Authorship of these outputs will be agreed upon in advance via a collaboration agreement, ensuring that Story Fellows and the research team have clear opportunities to contribute and are recognised for their work. This collaborative approach will give all participants a voice in how findings are presented. This multi-faceted strategy will ensure that the knowledge generated throughout the project reaches diverse audiences and effectively showcases the value of storytelling skills.
Is there a possibility for new organisations to come on-board in future years as Hosts?
Absolutely. We welcome further ideas about future organisations to come on-board for future projects. We have already selected the Hosts for our Full Programme, but we are looking into offering alternative projects with Host organisations in the future.
We will soon be launching flexible pathways for organisations who wish to leverage the StoryArcs network to enhance their research projects, support skill development for early career professionals, and embed Story Fellows into their initiatives for greater impact. Find out more and express your interest in this here: https://storyarcs.com/your-story/
Can you say any more about the role of the Partner Universities?
Our Partner Universities are Cardiff Metropolitan University, University of the Arts London (UAL), and University of Nottingham. The Partner Universities will employ the Story Fellows, providing a Mentor and facilitating the necessary research ethics procedures.
What do we see as the legacy of StoryArcs, and these projects? Do they have a public end result?
StoryArcs is designed to enhance the transferability of storytelling skills across various settings, making them relevant and impactful in diverse contexts. By developing the Story Skill Set, the Programme provides a comprehensive framework that equips educators, leaders, and practitioners with essential storytelling competencies. This emphasis on transferability ensures that individuals can apply their skills effectively, whether in corporate environments, educational settings, or community initiatives.
The Story Skill Set is positioned as a collaborative tool for addressing some of today’s most pressing challenges. By fostering dialogue and engagement, storytelling allows groups to explore complex issues and develop innovative solutions together. The adaptable nature of the Story Skill Set supports this goal, as individuals can tailor their storytelling techniques to fit different situations and audiences, enhancing the effectiveness of their communication.
Moreover, StoryArcs seeks to build a vibrant community of early-career leaders and experts in the storytelling field, supported through our Deep Story Leadership Platform. By facilitating collaboration among participants, the Programme encourages ongoing development and sharing of best practices. This community will not only demonstrate the wide-ranging applications of storytelling skills but also foster a supportive environment where members can learn from one another and evolve together in their Story-inspired journeys.
The legacy of the projects led by each Early Career Story Fellow at their Host organisations is poised to create a lasting impact on both the Fellows and the organisations involved. By applying the Story Skill Set in real-world contexts, these projects will exemplify the versatility and adaptability of storytelling as a tool for engagement and innovation.
Each project will serve as a living case study, demonstrating how storytelling can effectively address specific challenges faced by the Host organisations while simultaneously fostering collaboration and community-building among diverse stakeholders. As these projects unfold, they will contribute to a growing body of knowledge that highlights the transferability of storytelling skills across various settings. This will empower Early Career Story Fellows to enhance their own professional development and enable their Host organisations to leverage storytelling in alignment with their goals.
There will also be space for people to create their own individualised outputs to demonstrate how they are using their own perspectives on Story in their projects. To get involved in this exciting part of our journey, read more and express your interest here: https://storyarcs.com/your-story/. Ultimately, these projects will enrich the StoryArcs initiative, showcasing how storytelling can drive meaningful change and inspire a new generation of leaders to harness the power of narrative in their work.
In summary, the StoryArcs Programme aims to empower individuals to transfer and adapt storytelling skills across various contexts while promoting collaboration to tackle contemporary challenges. Through the creation of a supportive community, StoryArcs envisions a future where storytelling serves as a vital tool for leaders and practitioners alike, driving innovation and positive change in society.