The Asia in the World Fellowship 2027–2028 is one of the most distinctive international research opportunities available for early- and mid-career scholars interested in Asian Studies from a global perspective. Hosted by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) in Leiden, the Netherlands, this prestigious fellowship is designed to encourage innovative, interdisciplinary research while building meaningful collaborations across continents.
Unlike traditional fellowships that are based at a single institution, the Asia in the World Fellowship follows a unique two-phase model. Fellows spend the first part of the programme at a partner institution in Asia, Africa, Latin America, or Europe before completing the second phase at IIAS in Leiden. This structure allows participants to develop international partnerships, exchange ideas with diverse academic communities, and expand their research beyond regional boundaries.
Whether you are an academic researcher or planning to strengthen your international research profile, this guide explains the fellowship’s eligibility requirements, financial support, research focus, application process, and practical tips for submitting a competitive application.
Fellowship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) |
| Host Country | Netherlands |
| Programme Name | Asia in the World Fellowship 2027–2028 |
| Funding | Fully Funded (Category A – Academic) |
| Programme Duration | 9 Months |
| Programme Structure | 3 Months at a Partner Institution + 6 Months at IIAS, Leiden |
| Eligible Applicants | Early- to Mid-Career Researchers with a PhD |
| Research Fields | Asian Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences, Arts and Interdisciplinary Research |
| Application Mode | Online |
About the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS)
The International Institute for Asian Studies is a globally recognized research institute based in Leiden, the Netherlands. IIAS promotes interdisciplinary research that examines Asia’s connections with the wider world through collaboration between scholars, institutions, and knowledge professionals.
Rather than focusing solely on traditional regional studies, IIAS encourages innovative research that explores how Asia interacts with global political, cultural, historical, environmental, and social developments. The fellowship reflects this international outlook by bringing together researchers from different regions and academic backgrounds.
Why This Fellowship Is Highly Competitive
A Unique International Research Model
Participants conduct research at two different institutions, allowing them to experience diverse academic environments and develop global research partnerships.
Fully Funded Academic Opportunity
Eligible funded fellows receive financial support that helps cover living and accommodation costs during the fellowship, allowing them to focus on their research.
Global Research Network
Researchers collaborate with scholars, partner institutions, and professionals from multiple continents, creating long-term academic connections.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
The programme encourages projects that combine ideas from different disciplines and challenge conventional approaches to Asian Studies.
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship lasts nine months and consists of two phases:
Phase One
Selected fellows spend three months at one of IIAS’s partner institutions located in Asia, Africa, Latin America, or Europe.
During this period, fellows are expected to:
- Present their research.
- Participate in institutional activities.
- Engage with local researchers.
- Build academic collaborations.
Phase Two
The remaining six months are spent at IIAS in Leiden, where fellows continue their research while participating in seminars, workshops, and other academic activities. They also receive access to university facilities and research resources.
Research Areas
The fellowship welcomes proposals connected with Asia from a global perspective, including topics such as:
- Asian Studies
- Cultural Studies
- History
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Literature
- Media Studies
- Environmental Humanities
- Digital Humanities
- Arts and Culture
- Migration Studies
- Knowledge Diplomacy
- Urban Studies
- Interdisciplinary Humanities
Projects that cross disciplinary boundaries and connect academic research with broader societal issues are strongly encouraged.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants applying for the fully funded academic category should generally meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications
Candidates should:
- Hold a PhD, or
- Be scheduled to complete their doctoral defense within the timeframe specified in the official call.
Professional Profile
The fellowship is intended for:
- Early-career researchers.
- Mid-career researchers.
- Academics working in relevant disciplines.
Research Proposal
Applicants must submit an original research proposal demonstrating:
- Academic significance.
- Clear research objectives.
- Appropriate methodology.
- Relevance to the fellowship’s themes.
- Potential contribution to international scholarship.
Language Requirements
Applicants should have a strong command of English, as it is the primary working language of the fellowship.
Financial Support
For the funded academic category (Category A), IIAS provides financial support that includes:
- A monthly stipend during the Leiden residency.
- A monthly housing allowance for accommodation during the Leiden phase.
- A travel grant covering approved travel between the fellow’s home country, the partner institution, Leiden, and return travel.
- Access to professional development activities.
- Office space and university research facilities.
- Visa support for the Netherlands through Leiden University, while partner institutions provide guidance for visa procedures during the first phase.
Applicants should consult the official programme details for the exact funding conditions applicable to their cohort.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Participating in the Asia in the World Fellowship offers numerous advantages, including:
- Fully funded international research experience.
- Collaboration with leading global scholars.
- Access to IIAS and Leiden University research resources.
- Participation in academic workshops and seminars.
- Professional networking across multiple continents.
- Increased opportunities for future research collaborations.
- Enhanced academic visibility.
- Experience working in diverse international research environments.
Required Application Documents
Applicants are typically required to prepare:
- Academic CV.
- Research proposal.
- Motivation statement.
- Publication list.
- PhD certificate or confirmation of expected completion.
- Supporting academic documents.
- Additional materials requested in the official application form.
Shortlisted candidates may also be asked to provide reference letters and a short video presentation during the second stage of the selection process.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Read the Official Fellowship Announcement
Review the eligibility criteria, programme structure, funding information, and application instructions carefully.
Step 2: Prepare Your Academic CV
Include:
- Educational qualifications.
- Research positions.
- Publications.
- Conference presentations.
- Teaching experience.
- International collaborations.
- Awards and grants.
Step 3: Develop a High-Quality Research Proposal
Your proposal should clearly explain:
- Research questions.
- Objectives.
- Methodology.
- Expected outcomes.
- Contribution to Asian Studies.
- Why IIAS is the ideal research environment.
Step 4: Gather Supporting Documents
Ensure all required documents are complete, accurate, and formatted according to the official application guidelines.
Step 5: Submit Your Online Application
Complete the online application before the published deadline and carefully review all uploaded documents before final submission.
Tips for a Successful Application
To strengthen your application:
- Develop an original and interdisciplinary research proposal.
- Demonstrate how your project aligns with the fellowship’s global perspective.
- Highlight previous publications and international collaborations.
- Show the broader impact of your research.
- Carefully follow the official application instructions.
- Submit your application well before the deadline.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
Writing a Generic Research Proposal
Tailor your proposal specifically to the Asia in the World Fellowship and explain how it fits IIAS’s interdisciplinary mission.
Ignoring Programme Requirements
Read the eligibility criteria carefully before applying.
Submitting Incomplete Documents
Missing certificates, publication lists, or required forms can make an application ineligible.
Weak Motivation Statement
Clearly explain why the fellowship is important for your research and career development.
Waiting Until the Last Minute
Submitting early helps avoid technical issues and provides time to review your application.
Related Fellowship Opportunities
If you’re interested in this programme, you may also explore:
- KWI International Fellowship in Germany
- DAAD Research Fellowships
- Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowships
These programmes also support international researchers pursuing advanced academic work in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Asia in the World Fellowship?
The fully funded category is intended for early- and mid-career researchers who hold a PhD (or meet the official doctoral completion requirements) and whose work aligns with the programme’s focus on Asia in a global context.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes. The funded academic category includes financial support such as a monthly stipend, housing allowance during the Leiden phase, travel support, and access to university facilities.
How long does the fellowship last?
The programme runs for nine months, with three months at a partner institution followed by six months at IIAS in Leiden.
Is English required?
Yes. Applicants should have a good command of English because it is the main working language throughout the fellowship.
What happens after the initial application?
Shortlisted applicants are normally invited to provide additional materials, including reference letters and a short video presentation, before the final selection is announced.
Final Thoughts
The Asia in the World Fellowship 2027–2028 offers a unique opportunity for researchers seeking to explore Asia through a truly global and interdisciplinary lens. By combining residencies at an international partner institution and IIAS in Leiden, the programme encourages innovative scholarship, cross-cultural collaboration, and long-term academic partnerships.
With comprehensive financial support, access to world-class research resources, and an international scholarly community, the fellowship provides an outstanding platform for advancing research and building a global academic career. If your research aligns with the programme’s vision, preparing a well-structured proposal and submitting a complete application can significantly improve your chances of joining this prestigious fellowship.
