Deadline: September 15, 2025
Applications are open for the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) Asia in the World Fellowship Programme 2026-2027. The IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship is a 12-month initiative for early- to mid-career researchers from around the world who seek to broaden their perspectives beyond their particular geography, institution, or discipline.
The fellowship runs from October 2026 to October 2027. During this period, fellows participate in a three-phase programme:
- In the first phase, fellows are required to reside in Leiden, the Netherlands, for six months.
- This is followed by a second phase of three to five months at a co-host institution (see the list of partner institutions on this page under phase 2 tab).
- The final phase takes place back at IIAS in Leiden.
Benefits
Fellows rewarded the IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship receive:
- A monthly stipend of €1250 during the residency in Leiden. The stipend for the second phase will be determined by the co-host institution.
- Housing in Leiden (approx. 20-minutes walking distance from the institute). And housing during the period at the co-host institution.
- A one-time travel grant of up to €1000, covering travel to Schiphol Amsterdam Airport and your next destination.
- Opportunities for professional development (such as outings, workshops and other activities).
- Please note: IIAS does not provide additional funding for participation in academic conferences, workshops, or symposia during the fellowship period. Fellows may participate in such events at their own expense.
Eligibility
- Applicants must have a PhD. Applicants finalising their PhD may apply, provided that their defense/viva takes place no later than 15 February 2026. Confirmation of this date from your university is required before any fellowship award can be confirmed.
- Applicants must be fully available from October 2026 to October 2027. The fellowship cannot begin earlier or later than October, nor can it be concluded prematurely. Selected fellows must arrive during the first week of October 2026.
- Applicants who are currently employed or affiliated with another institution must secure official release from their duties for the full duration of the fellowship. This fellowship may not be held in combination with other fellowships or employment contracts.
- Applicants planning to conduct fieldwork are strongly advised to complete this prior to the start of the fellowship. IIAS does not provide funding for fieldwork activities during the fellowship period.
Application
Applications must include the following:
- Completed IIAS Fellowship Application Form, including all required uploads
- Curriculum Vitae
- List of publications
- Work plan
- (Reference letters will only be required for shortlisted candidates)
Submission Requirements
- All materials must be submitted via the online application form.
- Files larger than 4MB will not be accepted.
- Please name your files using the following format: FIRSTNAME_LASTNAME_FILENAME.doc/pdf.
For more information, visit Asia in the World Fellowship.
