Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2027 in Singapore: Fully Funded Research Fellowship

The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme (WGWVF) is a prestigious international research fellowship hosted by ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore. The fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers and mid-career policymakers conducting policy-relevant research on Southeast Asia and major geopolitical developments.

Named after renowned historian and scholar Wang Gungwu, the program aims to nurture the next generation of regional experts and thought leaders.

What is the Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme?

The fellowship honours Wang Gungwu for his long-standing contributions to ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute and Southeast Asian scholarship. The program supports research on the impact of major global powers on Southeast Asia.

Selected fellows will conduct research while residing at ISEAS in Singapore.

Research Focus Areas

Applicants are expected to work on policy-oriented research in areas such as:

• US–China relations and Southeast Asia
• Asia-Pacific security issues
• South China Sea and China–ASEAN relations
• Regional economic cooperation initiatives
• Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
• RCEP and economic integration
• Digital media influence and technology geopolitics
• Rise of China and its impact on Southeast Asia

Fellowship Duration

• Minimum: 2 months
• Maximum: 6 months

Successful fellows are expected to remain in residence at ISEAS for the duration of the fellowship.

Financial Benefits

Selected fellows receive:

• Monthly stipend (including housing subsidy)
• Round-trip economy airfare to Singapore
• Office space and IT support
• Access to the ISEAS Library and facilities
• Opportunity for partial/full cost-sharing support

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to:

• Postdoctoral researchers
• Mid-career policymakers
• Scholars with strong research interests related to Southeast Asia

Applicants without a PhD may still apply if they demonstrate substantial professional experience and research expertise.

Expected Outputs

Fellows are expected to:

• Publish in ISEAS Perspective or ISEAS Fulcrum
• Present research findings at an in-house seminar
• Engage with the ISEAS scholarly community

Application Requirements

Applicants generally need:

• Cover letter
• CV/Resume
• Research statement (around 3 pages)
• Research timeline and expected outputs
• Two recommendation letters
• Cost-sharing proposal (if applicable)

Application Deadline (2027 Intake)

• Deadline: 4 August 2026

Applications must be submitted online or via email to ISEAS.

Why Apply for This Fellowship?

This fellowship offers:

• Research opportunity in one of Asia’s top policy institutes
• Strong regional academic network
• Fully funded stay in Singapore
• Exposure to Southeast Asian policy discussions
• Collaboration with leading scholars and policymakers

It is especially valuable for researchers focused on geopolitics, regional security, and Asia-Pacific affairs.

About ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute

ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute is a leading regional research center dedicated to studying socio-political, economic, and strategic developments in Southeast Asia. The institute is internationally respected for its research and publications on ASEAN and regional affairs.

Conclusion

The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2027 is an excellent fully funded research opportunity for scholars and policymakers interested in Southeast Asia and global geopolitics. With generous support, international exposure, and access to top regional expertise, the fellowship provides a strong platform for impactful research and academic growth.