Researchers, academics, artists, and professionals from around the world can now apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28, a fully funded international research fellowship hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in Leiden, the Netherlands.
The fellowship offers a unique opportunity to spend 12 months at one of Europe’s leading Asian studies institutes, where participants will conduct interdisciplinary research, collaborate with global experts, and explore Asia’s role in addressing today’s most pressing global challenges.
If you’re looking to expand your research, build international collaborations, and work in a world-class academic environment, this fellowship is an excellent opportunity.
Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28 Summary
- Host Country: Netherlands
- Host Institution: International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS)
- Location: Leiden, Netherlands
- Duration: 12 Months
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 10 September 2026
Financial Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive funding package that includes:
- Round-trip airfare
- Free accommodation in Leiden
- Monthly living stipend
- Access to professional development activities
- Opportunities to participate in academic seminars, workshops, and networking events
Research Areas
IIAS welcomes interdisciplinary research projects related to Asia and its connections with global issues. Applicants may propose research in areas such as:
- Asian societies and cultures
- International relations
- Global governance
- Migration and mobility
- Climate change
- Sustainable development
- Digital transformation
- Urban development
- Public policy
- Arts and humanities
- Cultural heritage
- Environmental studies
- History
- Political science
- Economics
- Social sciences
Researchers working across multiple disciplines are especially encouraged to apply.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be of any nationality.
- Be affiliated with a university, research institute, think tank, museum, or another relevant organization.
- Demonstrate expertise related to their proposed research.
- Submit an original, high-quality research proposal.
- Ensure their research aligns with IIAS’s Asia in the World initiative.
- Be available to conduct research during the fellowship period.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Completed online application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal
- Motivation letter or statement
- Publication list (where applicable)
- Any additional documents requested through the application portal
Why Apply?
The Asia in the World Fellowship provides much more than financial support. Fellows will have the opportunity to:
- Conduct research at one of Europe’s top Asian studies institutes.
- Collaborate with leading international scholars and researchers.
- Expand their global academic and professional network.
- Participate in conferences, seminars, and research events hosted by IIAS.
- Increase the international visibility of their research.
- Develop long-term international collaborations for future projects.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official IIAS application portal before 10 September 2026. Interested applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements and prepare all required documents before submitting their application.
VISIT THE IIAS WEBSITE TO ACCESS THE APPLICATION PORTAL AND COMPLETE APPLICATION GUIDELINES
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