Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 (Fully Funded) | How to Apply
The Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 (Fully Funded), offered by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS), invites global early- to mid‑career researchers to conduct pioneering research on Asia’s global role. Spanning twelve months from October 2026 to October 2027, this fully funded fellowship takes place across Leiden University and select host institutions worldwide.
Summary of Key Details
- Program host and duration overview
- Eligibility requirements and target applicants
- Research themes and fellowship structure
- Financial and professional benefits offered
- Application process and required documents
- Timeline and FAQs to guide your preparation
If your research relates to Asia’s global influence—whether in urbanization, culture, governance, or globalization—this fellowship offers a once-in-a-career opportunity to receive structured support and international exposure.
Program Overview
The Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 (Fully Funded) delivers immersive research opportunities through a unique multi-phase structure. Initially, fellows spend six months at IIAS in Leiden, engaging in collaborative projects, seminars, and publication opportunities. For the next three to five months, they move to one of the designated co-host institutions around the world. At the end of the year, they return to Leiden to share insights and finalize their contributions to IIAS’s scholarly community.
This model fosters sustained research development and global collaboration, positioning participants as emerging leaders in Asian studies.
Eligibility and Requirements
This fully funded fellowship welcomes applications from researchers worldwide. Applicants must:
- Possess a PhD, or have confirmation of a scheduled defense by February 15, 2026.
- Be available from October 2026 to October 2027, with no other professional or academic commitments.
- Secure official release from any employment or existing contracts.
- Be prepared to reside at the host locations full-time for the duration of the fellowship.
This fellowship targets early- to mid-career researchers whose work contributes to IIAS’s thematic areas, offering an intensive yet flexible research environment.
Research Focus Areas
China, India, Southeast Asia, and the broader global Asia region are understood through four thematic clusters used by IIAS:
- Asian Cities: Urban development, mobility, planning, and social dynamics
- Politics of Culture: Heritage, identity, memory, and cultural transformation
- Global Asia: Transnational linkages, diaspora, global governance, and political economy
Proposals must align with at least one theme and emphasize Asia’s interconnections with global systems.
Fellowship Structure at a Glance
Phase 1 – Leiden University (6 Months)
Begin in October 2026 at IIAS. Engage in scholarly seminars, cross-disciplinary research groups, collaborative discussions, and opportunities to publish in IIAS-affiliated journals.
Phase 2 – Co‑Host Institutions (3–5 Months)
Choose from a global roster of co‑hosts based on research fit:
- Asia-Pacific & African centers: Airlangga Institute (Indonesia), CRIA (Portugal), TUDA (Dar es Salaam & Senegal), UBD (Taipei)
- European institutions: Erfurt and Heidelberg (Germany), Malmö (Sweden), University of Madrid (Spain)
During this phase, fellows access local archives, region-specific networks, and mentorship at the hosting institute.
Phase 3 – Final Review at IIAS (Leiden)
Return to Leiden to share research findings, participate in final workshops, and finalize contributions to IIAS’s scholarly output.
Financial and Professional Benefits
The Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 (Fully Funded) covers:
- Return airfare for all fellowship segments
- Fully furnished housing at each phase location
- Monthly stipend to cover living costs
- Professional development opportunities—workshops, conferences, and publication support
This fellowship equips researchers with both the financial stability and institutional backing needed to pursue rigorous, globally relevant research.
Application Process and Documents
To apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 (Fully Funded), follow these steps:
- Visit the official IIAS fellowship application portal.
- Complete and submit the online application and the IIAS fellowship application form.
- Provide a full CV and list of publications.
- Prepare a work plan and timeline for your research year.
- Submit documentation confirming your PhD status or defense date.
- Indicate your preferred co-host institutions and city/country priorities.
Successful candidates will receive a shortlist notification by November 2025, with final decisions confirmed by February 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline?
The official deadline is 15 September 2025. Applications earlier submitters often receive more feedback time.
Do I need a specific nationality to apply?
No. The fellowship is open to researchers from all countries.
Can I apply while employed?
Yes—only if your employer grants official release for the full duration of the fellowship (October 2026 to October 2027) without overlapping commitments.
Is living allowance adequate for European living costs?
Yes. IIAS provides stipends calculated to support fellows in Leiden and selected host cities comfortably.
Can I choose more than one co-host placement?
Yes—indicate your top choices. Final placement depends on alignment with your research proposal and host availability.
Unique Strengths of This Fellowship
The Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 (Fully Funded) stands out due to its three-phase immersive format. By combining residential phases at IIAS and leading international institutions, it offers exceptional networking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and geographic diversity. Fellows gain exposure to research hubs across Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America, making it ideal for scholars committed to global scholarship on Asia.
The fellowship’s emphasis on global Asia and transnational frameworks positions scholars to contribute beyond regional studies—creating a broader academic footprint.
Final Thoughts
The Asia in the World Fellowship 2026/27 (Fully Funded) provides a transformative opportunity to drive innovative research on Asia’s global significance. With full funding and structured mentorship, this program empowers early- to mid-career researchers to advance scholarship and collaboration.
To succeed, ensure your proposal aligns with one of IIAS’s thematic clusters, clarify your placement at host institutions, and articulate how your research contributes to global dialogues on Asia. Prepare your documents early and submit well before the deadline to enhance your chances.
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