Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026: Fully Funded Chance for Southeast Asia Scholars

The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 offers a rare chance for researchers to dive into Singapore’s rich archives. This fully funded program lets scholars spend six months in Singapore, working with world-class collections on Southeast Asian history and culture. Hosted by the National Library Board Singapore, it supports historians, academics, and others who want to make real contributions to their fields.

About the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship

This six-month residential fellowship takes place at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the National Archives of Singapore. Fellows get full access to some of Asia’s best collections. These include materials from the 16th century, early European accounts of Southeast Asia, rare maps, old publications from Singapore’s first printing presses, archives of key authors, and important government records.

The program fits projects that mix history with modern topics. It supports interdisciplinary work, like comparing regions or studying cultural changes. Researchers can explore both past events and current stories tied to Singapore and Southeast Asia.

Fellowship Deadline

Applications close on 29 May 2026. Start gathering your materials early to build a strong case. Late submissions will not be accepted, so plan ahead.

Financial Benefits and Support

The fellowship covers all major costs so researchers can focus on their work. Key supports include a monthly stipend for the full six months. International fellows receive a one-time relocation allowance, monthly housing help, and a return economy-class air ticket.

This setup removes money worries. Fellows can settle in and use their time for deep research.

Research Focus and Areas

Projects should connect to the library’s collections. Common topics cover Singapore’s growth, Southeast Asian studies, colonial and post-colonial stories, cultural heritage, and changes in politics, economy, and society. Design your work to draw directly from the archives for the best fit.

Eligibility Criteria

Open to curators, historians, academics, independent researchers, doctoral students, and postdocs. You need a proven record in your field. Submit a clear research plan that matches the collections.

Fellowship Expectations and Obligations

Fellows must live in Singapore for all six months. Use the library collections as your main resource. Take part in the local research community and create outputs from your work, like papers or talks.

This full residency helps you make the most of the archives and networks.

Publishing Rights and Academic Contribution

You keep rights to your findings. Share them through journals, conferences, or team projects. This boosts knowledge about Southeast Asia worldwide.

Selection Criteria

Judges look at your past achievements, the strength and new ideas in your proposal, how well it fits the collections, and its potential impact. Competition comes from top candidates everywhere.

How to Apply

Send a detailed research proposal, your CV, proof of experience, and any other needed items by the deadline. Explain clearly how you will use the archives. Check the official site for full details.

Voices from Previous Fellows

Past winners include Nurul Kaiyisah Mohd Latip, Muneerah Ab Razak, Sophia Chen Zhiting, Chng Xin Ying, Jennifer Yang, and Han Song. They praise the strong research setting, easy archive access, and career boosts from the program.

Why You Should Apply

This fellowship gives access to unique materials in a top research hub. Connect with experts, grow your skills, and advance your career. If Southeast Asian history or archives excite you, this is your chance to contribute at a high level.

Frequently Asked Questions