Eight academics from the University of Oxford have been elected as Fellows and an Honorary Fellow of the British Academy, joining a prestigious group of scholars recognized for their contributions to the humanities and social sciences. The British Academy, established in 1902, serves as the UK's national academy for these fields.
The newly elected fellows from Oxford include Professor Peter Thonemann, Professor Stefan Nicolaas Dercon CMG, Professor Margaret Hillenbrand, Professor Lionel David Smith, Professor Rosalind Margaret Ballaster, Professor Alexander Betts, Professor Daniel MacGregor Grimley, and Professor Alison Grace Salvesen. Additionally, Richard Ovenden has been named an Honorary Fellow.
Professor Peter Thonemann expressed his gratitude: "I am deeply touched, and honoured, to have been elected as a Fellow of the British Academy." He emphasized the importance of supporting humanities departments facing potential cuts or closures.
Professor Stefan Nicolaas Dercon stated: "I am honoured to be elected a Fellow of the British Academy," highlighting his commitment to rigorous scholarship.
Professor Margaret Hillenbrand shared her happiness about the recognition: "There’s still a huge knowledge deficit about China in the UK...the British Academy is an institution that really has the power to change that."
Professor Lionel David Smith reflected on his academic journey: "At Oxford and other universities...All these things are essential to being a successful scholar."
Professor Alexander Betts commented on his election: "Many congratulations to all the new fellows for 2025...to ensure that their insights inform public debate."
Richard Ovenden remarked on receiving an Honorary Fellowship: "To receive the Honorary Fellowship means an immense amount...I hold this Fellowship for all librarians and archivists."
The President of the British Academy, Professor Susan J. Smith PBA said: “One of my first acts as the incoming President...they represent the very best of the humanities and social sciences.”
This year saw an increase in new Fellows by nearly ten percent. This expansion aims to bridge gaps between disciplines while promoting research excellence across various fields.