IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship Programme 2027–2028 | Fully Funded International Research Fellowship in the Netherlands

Applications are now open for the IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship Programme 2027–2028, an innovative international research fellowship organized by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) at Leiden University, Netherlands. This prestigious nine-month residential fellowship is designed for early- to mid-career researchers and knowledge professionals seeking to explore Asia from global, interdisciplinary perspectives. The program combines a residency at an international co-host institution with a research stay at IIAS in Leiden, creating a unique opportunity for international collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The fellowship moves beyond traditional regional approaches by connecting researchers across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Participants engage in collaborative research, interdisciplinary dialogue, and academic networking while contributing to global debates on Asia and its connections with the world.

Fellowship Overview

• Host Institution: International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS), Leiden University
• Host Country: Netherlands
• Programme: Asia in the World Fellowship 2027–2028
• Programme Duration: 9 Months
• Structure:
  • Phase 1: 3 months at an international co-host institution
  • Phase 2: 6 months at IIAS, Leiden University
• Eligible Applicants: International researchers and knowledge professionals
• Application Period: 1 July – 10 September 2026
• Application Mode: Online

Fellowship Benefits

Category A – Funded Academic Fellows

Successful applicants will receive:

• Monthly stipend of €1,250 (gross) during the six-month residency at IIAS in Leiden.
• Office space and research facilities at IIAS.
• Access to Leiden University Library and research resources.
• Opportunities to collaborate with international scholars.
• Participation in seminars, workshops, lectures, and networking events.
• Membership in IIAS’s global research community.
• Three-month placement at a partner institution in Asia, Africa, Europe, or Latin America.

Fellowship Categories

Applicants may apply under one of the following categories:

Category A – Academic (Funded)

• PhD holders or candidates completing their PhD defense by September 2026
• Eligible for IIAS funding

Category B – Academic (Self-Funded)

• PhD holders with confirmed external funding

Category C – Independent Professional (Self-Funded)

• Journalists
• Writers
• Diplomats
• Policy professionals
• Curators
• Other experienced knowledge professionals with external funding

Research Themes

Research proposals should explore Asia within broader global contexts and align with one or more IIAS research clusters, including:

• Asia in the World
• Cities and Environment
• Politics of Culture
• Humanities Across Borders
• Africa–Asia Axis of Knowledge
• Knowledge Diplomacy in Action

Interdisciplinary projects and collaborations between academic and non-academic sectors are especially encouraged.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should:

• Hold a PhD (or complete the PhD defense by September 2026 for funded applicants).
• Demonstrate an excellent academic or professional record.
• Have strong English language proficiency.
• Commit to the full nine-month fellowship.
• Obtain official leave from their employer if currently employed.
• For funded applicants, not hold another fellowship or employment contract during the programme.

Required Application Documents

Applicants typically need to submit:

• Online application form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Research proposal
• Publication list
• PhD information or confirmation letter (if applicable)
• Supporting documents requested in the application portal

Shortlisted applicants will later be asked to provide:

• Two reference letters
• A short video presentation introducing themselves and their proposed project.

Fellowship Structure

Phase 1 – International Co-host Institution (3 Months)

Fellows will spend three months at one of IIAS’s partner institutions in Asia, Africa, Europe, or Latin America, where they are expected to:

• Present a lecture or seminar.
• Collaborate with local researchers.
• Engage in institutional activities.

Phase 2 – IIAS, Leiden University (6 Months)

Participants will continue their research at IIAS while:

• Working alongside international fellows.
• Participating in seminars and workshops.
• Accessing Leiden University’s research facilities.
• Contributing to IIAS’s academic community.

Important Dates

Why Apply?

The IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship offers participants the opportunity to:

• Conduct interdisciplinary international research.
• Build collaborations across multiple continents.
• Work with leading scholars at Leiden University.
• Expand global academic and professional networks.
• Develop innovative perspectives on Asia in global contexts.
• Strengthen future careers in academia, policy, and international research.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official IIAS Fellowship webpage.
2. Choose the appropriate application category.
3. Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents.
4. Complete the online application form.
5. Submit your application before 10 September 2026.
6. If shortlisted, provide two reference letters and a short video presentation.

The IIAS Asia in the World Fellowship Programme 2027–2028 is an exceptional opportunity for early- and mid-career researchers seeking an innovative, globally connected research experience. By combining residencies at an international partner institution and Leiden University, the fellowship promotes interdisciplinary scholarship, international collaboration, and new perspectives on Asia’s place in the world. Researchers interested in humanities, social sciences, cultural studies, and global affairs are encouraged to apply before the 10 September 2026 deadline.