Asia in the World Fellowship Program 2027 in the Netherlands | Fully Funded Research Fellowship

 

The Asia in the World Fellowship Program 2027 is an outstanding opportunity for early- to mid-career researchers and knowledge professionals who wish to explore Asia's role in addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research. Organized by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in Leiden, the Netherlands, this prestigious fellowship provides participants with financial support, international collaboration opportunities, and access to one of Europe's leading Asian studies institutions.

This 9-month fully funded residential fellowship is designed to encourage innovative research that connects Asia with broader global issues. Fellows will spend time at a partner institution before completing their residency at IIAS in Leiden, where they will collaborate with international scholars, participate in seminars, and develop impactful research projects.

Whether your expertise is in the humanities, social sciences, public policy, international relations, environmental studies, or cultural research, the Asia in the World Fellowship offers an exceptional platform to expand your academic horizons and build lasting international partnerships.

About the Asia in the World Fellowship

The Asia in the World Fellowship is an innovative initiative by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS). Unlike traditional regional fellowships, this programme promotes global perspectives by encouraging researchers to study Asia within broader international contexts.

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The fellowship follows a two-phase structure that includes a residency at a partner institution followed by six months at IIAS in Leiden. This model enables fellows to engage with diverse academic communities while strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Fellowship Overview

• Host Country: Netherlands
• Host Institution: International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS)
• Programme Duration: 9 Months
• Programme Type: Fully Funded Fellowship
• Eligible Applicants: Early- to mid-career researchers and knowledge professionals
• Application Mode: Online
• Application Deadline: 10 September 2026

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

• Monthly fellowship stipend
• Round-trip international airfare
• Free accommodation during the fellowship
• Office space and research facilities at IIAS
• Access to Leiden University libraries
• Professional development activities
• International networking opportunities
• Participation in seminars and workshops
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Increased visibility for research through IIAS events and publications

Fellowship Structure

The programme consists of two stages:

Phase One

• Three-month residency at a partner institution in Asia, Africa, Latin America, or Europe.

Phase Two

• Six-month residency at IIAS in Leiden, Netherlands.

During both phases, fellows collaborate with researchers, attend academic activities, and contribute to the international research community.

Research Areas

IIAS welcomes interdisciplinary projects related to:

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• Asian Studies
• International Relations
• Global Governance
• Climate Change
• Sustainable Development
• Migration and Mobility
• Politics and Public Policy
• Digital Transformation
• Urban Studies
• Cultural Heritage
• History
• Economics
• Environmental Studies
• Humanities
• Social Sciences

Projects that examine Asia's relationship with global developments are particularly encouraged.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants generally should:

• Be early- to mid-career researchers or knowledge professionals.
• Hold a PhD (or meet the programme's academic requirements for the funded category).
• Demonstrate strong academic or professional achievements.
• Submit an original and high-quality research proposal.
• Possess good English language proficiency.
• Be able to complete the full fellowship period.

Researchers from universities, think tanks, museums, research institutes, and similar organizations are encouraged to apply.

Required Documents

Applicants are typically required to submit:

• Completed online application form
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Research proposal
• Motivation statement
• List of publications (if applicable)
• Supporting academic documents

Shortlisted candidates may also be asked to provide reference letters and a short video presentation during the selection process.

How to Apply

Step 1

Visit the official IIAS Fellowship application portal.

Step 2

Choose the appropriate application category.

Step 3

Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents.

Step 4

Complete the online application form carefully.

Step 5

Upload all required documents and submit your application before 10 September 2026.

Why Apply?

The Asia in the World Fellowship offers numerous advantages:

• Conduct research in one of Europe's leading Asian studies institutes.
• Collaborate with international scholars from multiple disciplines.
• Expand your global academic network.
• Access outstanding research resources.
• Increase the visibility of your research.
• Build long-term international collaborations.
• Strengthen your academic profile for future funding opportunities.

Tips for a Successful Application

To improve your chances of selection:

• Develop a clear, original, and interdisciplinary research proposal.
• Demonstrate how your project contributes to global discussions involving Asia.
• Highlight your academic achievements and publications.
• Ensure your proposal aligns with IIAS research priorities.
• Submit a complete application well before the deadline.

A well-prepared proposal that demonstrates innovation and global relevance will significantly strengthen your application.

Career Opportunities After the Fellowship

Completing the fellowship can open doors to careers in:

• Universities
• International Research Institutes
• Think Tanks
• International Organizations
• Government Agencies
• Policy Research Centers
• Cultural Institutions
• Museums
• International NGOs

The fellowship also strengthens your prospects for future research grants, academic appointments, and international collaborations.

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Application Link

Official IIAS Fellowship Portal: 

Conclusion

The Asia in the World Fellowship Program 2027 is an exceptional opportunity for researchers seeking to examine Asia's place within global developments while working in a highly collaborative international environment. With generous financial support, access to world-class research facilities, and opportunities to engage with scholars from around the globe, the fellowship provides an ideal platform for advancing innovative research and building meaningful academic partnerships.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, begin preparing your research proposal early, gather all required documents, and submit your application before the deadline. This prestigious fellowship could become a significant milestone in your academic and professional journey.