Looking for a fully funded international research fellowship in Europe? Applications are now open for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28, hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in Leiden, the Netherlands. This prestigious 12-month fully funded fellowship welcomes researchers, artists, practitioners, and professionals from around the world who are interested in exploring Asia’s role in addressing today’s global challenges through interdisciplinary research and international collaboration.
The fellowship provides an inspiring academic environment where fellows can conduct innovative research, collaborate with international scholars, and participate in seminars, workshops, conferences, and networking events. Participants will become part of a vibrant global research community while contributing to discussions on social, cultural, political, environmental, technological, and economic issues related to Asia.
Selected fellows will spend one year at IIAS in Leiden, one of Europe’s leading institutes for Asian Studies. Fellows will receive full financial support, gain access to world-class research facilities and libraries, expand their international academic network, and strengthen their professional careers through meaningful research collaborations.
Asia in the World Fellowship 2027 Overview
- Host Country: Netherlands
- Host Institution: International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS)
- Program Type: International Research Fellowship
- Duration: 12 Months
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Eligible Applicants: Researchers, artists, practitioners, and professionals from all countries
- Eligible Countries: All Nationalities
- Research Areas: Interdisciplinary Asian Studies, Global Challenges, International Relations, Climate Change, Sustainable Development, Digital Transformation, Public Policy, Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, and related fields
- Application Deadline: 10 September 2026
Research Themes
Applicants are encouraged to submit interdisciplinary research proposals related to one or more of the following areas:
- Asian societies, cultures, and civilizations
- International relations and global cooperation
- Global governance and public policy
- Migration, mobility, and transnational communities
- Climate change and environmental sustainability
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Digital transformation and emerging technologies
- Urban development and smart cities
- Arts, humanities, and cultural studies
- Cultural heritage and identity
- Environmental studies
- Asian history and historical perspectives
- Political science and governance
- Economics, trade, and regional development
- Social sciences and interdisciplinary Asian research
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants from all countries are eligible.
- Researchers affiliated with universities, research institutes, think tanks, museums, cultural organizations, and similar institutions may apply.
- Applicants should have proven expertise in the field related to their proposed research.
- Research proposals must demonstrate originality, innovation, and academic excellence.
- The proposed research should align with the objectives of IIAS and the Asia in the World initiative.
- Applicants must be available to complete the fellowship during the full 12-month period.
Fellowship Benefits
The Asia in the World Fellowship offers comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
- Fully funded 12-month research fellowship
- Round-trip airfare to and from the Netherlands
- Free accommodation throughout the fellowship
- Monthly living stipend
- Access to IIAS libraries, research facilities, and academic resources
- Participation in seminars, conferences, workshops, and networking events
- Professional development opportunities
- Collaboration with internationally recognized researchers and scholars
- Global networking opportunities with academics and partner institutions
- International research experience that strengthens your academic profile
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application:
- Completed online application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Detailed research proposal
- Motivation statement
- Publication list (if applicable)
- Any additional supporting documents requested through the application portal
Application Process
Follow these simple steps to apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship 2027/28:
- Visit the official IIAS Fellowship webpage.
- Carefully read the fellowship guidelines and eligibility requirements.
- Prepare all required application documents.
- Write a strong research proposal aligned with the fellowship themes.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Review your application carefully before submission.
- Submit your application before 10 September 2026.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 10 September 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Apply Now
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Asia in the World Fellowship fully funded?
Yes. The fellowship provides full financial support, including airfare, accommodation, a monthly stipend, and access to research facilities.
Who can apply?
Researchers, artists, practitioners, and professionals from all countries are eligible to apply.
How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts 12 months.
Where will the fellowship take place?
The fellowship is hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in Leiden, the Netherlands.
What research fields are eligible?
IIAS welcomes interdisciplinary research related to Asian Studies, including international relations, public policy, migration, sustainability, climate change, digital transformation, economics, history, culture, political science, environmental studies, and other related disciplines.
Is there an age limit?
No age limit has been specified in the official fellowship announcement.
What documents are required?
Applicants generally need an online application form, CV, research proposal, motivation statement, publication list (if applicable), and any supporting documents requested by IIAS.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline to submit applications is 10 September 2026.
