Job Description

Opportunity description:

Looking for a fully funded research fellowship abroad? If so, the Asia in the World Fellowship, offered by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) at Leiden University, is now open for applications. The Asia in the World Fellowship is a nine-month residential program that not only fundamentally reimagines how researchers engage with Asian studies but also fosters a deeper understanding of the region’s complexities.

From 1 July to 10 September 2026, early- to mid-career scholars and knowledge professionals can apply for this distinctive two-phase fellowship. In particular, it breaks out of conventional North–South academic frameworks and instead adopts a genuinely multi-centered, globally collaborative model.

What Makes It Different:

Unlike traditional fellowships, this program runs across two phases:

• Phase 1 (3 months): A residency at a partner co-host institution in Asia, Africa, Latin America, or Europe. During this phase, fellows give a talk or lecture and participate in local academic life.
• Phase 2 (6 months): Residence at IIAS, Leiden University, in the Netherlands, with access to shared office space, seminar rooms, the university library, and a screening room.

Moreover, throughout both phases, cohort members participate in online meetings coordinated by IIAS, creating an intellectual community that spans continents.

The application period:

Beginning in 2025, the program selects two cohorts per round, thereby expanding the number of fellows supported:

Who Can Apply

The program welcomes three categories of applicants:

1. Category A (Academic, Funded): PhD holders applying for the fully funded modality. This category includes a monthly stipend (€1,250 gross during Phase 2), a housing allowance (€1,200/month during Phase 2), a travel grant, as well as visa support.
2. Category B (Academic, Self-Funded): PhD holders with confirmed external or personal funding for the full period. In this case, they receive visa support, accommodation assistance, and full program access.
3. Category C (Independent Professional, Self-Funded): Includes journalists, writers, diplomats, policymakers, curators, and other professionals with relevant track records as well as confirmed funding.

Note: It is important to note that all categories require a good command of English.

Research Focus

Projects should engage with Asia as part of wider global formations and may align with one or more of IIAS’s thematic clusters: Cities, The Politics of Culture, Asia in the World, Humanities Across Borders, and Knowledge Diplomacy in Action. Additionally, interdisciplinary approaches and projects bridging academic and non-academic knowledge are strongly encouraged.

Key Dates

Selection Process

After submitting the online application form, shortlisted candidates should:

1. Provide two reference letters.
2. Attend an online introductory meeting.

How to Apply

For full terms & conditions and to apply, visit the IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship page. The online information session on 13 August 2026 is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and learn more.

1. Fellows must commit to the full nine-month duration; in other words, early departure is not permitted.
2. The fellowship cannot be combined with another fellowship or employment contract (for all categories).
3. Valid health insurance covering the Netherlands is mandatory throughout the Leiden residency.
4. IIAS does not fund external conferences, symposia, or fieldwork during the fellowship period.

Apply Now!

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