YBB – The Asia in the World Fellowship Programme 2027 is now accepting applications. This fully funded fellowship is organized by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) and welcomes researchers and experienced professionals interested in Asian studies. Selected fellows will spend nine months conducting research at partner institutions before continuing their fellowship at Leiden University in the Netherlands.
During the program, fellows will collaborate with academics from different disciplines, broaden their professional networks, and contribute to research on contemporary issues related to Asia. The application process is free of charge.
Quick Overview
Host Institution: International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS)
Host Country: Netherlands
Program: Asia in the World Fellowship Programme
Target Participants: Mid-career researchers and professionals
Duration: 9 Months
Funding: Fully Funded (Category A)
Application Deadline: 10 September 2026
About the Fellowship Program
The Asia in the World Fellowship Programme is a prestigious international initiative that supports innovative research on Asia while encouraging collaboration between scholars and professionals from different disciplines and regions.
The program welcomes applications from researchers, journalists, diplomats, writers, curators, policymakers, and other experienced professionals with a strong academic or professional track record. Throughout the fellowship, participants will engage in collaborative research, networking activities, and professional development while contributing to the global understanding of Asian studies.
Also read: Researchers Worldwide Invited to Apply for JYU Visiting Fellow Programme 2027 in Finland
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship consists of two consecutive phases.
Phase 1 – International Residency (3 Months)
During the first phase, fellows will spend three months at a partner institution located in Asia, Europe, Africa, or Latin America. Participants will collaborate with local researchers, deliver lectures, join academic activities, and attend regular online meetings with the fellowship coordinator.
Phase 2 – Research Residency in the Netherlands (6 Months)
The second phase takes place at the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS), Leiden University. Fellows will conduct research while enjoying access to office space, the institute’s library, seminar rooms, screening facilities, and a vibrant international academic community.
Fellowship Categories
Applicants may apply under one of the following participation categories:
Category A – Funded (Academic)
This category provides full financial support for eligible researchers.
Category B – Self-Funded (Academic)
For researchers who already have confirmed funding from their institution or another sponsor.
Category C – Self-Funded (Independent Professionals)
Open to experienced professionals such as journalists, diplomats, writers, policymakers, and curators with independent funding.
Also read: Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellowship 2027: Fully Funded Research Opportunity in Singapore
Fellowship Benefits
Category A (Fully Funded)
Successful applicants will receive:
- Monthly stipend of €1,250 during the fellowship.
- Monthly housing allowance of €1,200 while staying in the Netherlands.
- Travel grant.
- Visa support.
- Access to IIAS facilities, including offices and library resources.
- Participation in seminars, networking events, and professional development workshops.
Category B & C
Participants in Categories B and C will receive:
- Visa support.
- Accommodation assistance.
- Full access to IIAS facilities.
- Access to seminars, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Research Focus Areas
Research proposals should align with one of the following IIAS themes:
- Asia in the World
- Politics of Culture
- Cities and Urban Studies
- Humanities Across Borders
- Knowledge Diplomacy in Action
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility depends on the selected fellowship category.
Category A
Applicants must:
- Be mid-career researchers.
- Hold a PhD degree or complete their PhD defense by September 2026.
Category B
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD degree.
- Have confirmed external or institutional funding.
Category C
Applicants should be experienced professionals such as:
- Writers
- Journalists
- Diplomats
- Policymakers
- Curators
- Other professionals with a strong record of achievement
Also read: Harvard Rowland Fellowship 2027 Now Open: Fully Funded Research Opportunity in the United States
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal
- Publication list
Note: Shortlisted candidates will later be asked to submit two reference letters and a short presentation video.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 1 July 2026
- Application Deadline: 10 September 2026
- Result Announcement: March 2027
How to Apply
Interested applicants must complete the online application through the official IIAS website before the application deadline.
The application process includes:
- Completing the online application form at https://www.iias.asia/fellowships/asia-in-the-world.
- Uploading all required documents.
- Submitting the application before 10 September 2026.
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted to provide two reference letters and a short presentation video.
Conclusion
The Asia in the World Fellowship Programme 2027 is an outstanding opportunity for researchers and experienced professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in Asian studies through an international research experience. The fellowship provides an ideal environment for developing impactful research and building global collaborations. If you meet the eligibility requirements, be sure to submit your application before 10 September 2026.
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