The Centre for International Law at the National University of Singapore offers a fully funded Postdoctoral Fellowship in International Law starting in September 2026. This chance targets early-career researchers who want to build strong careers in international law. It provides a supportive space to grow skills and produce important work.
About the Centre for International Law
The Centre for International Law, or CIL, sits at the National University of Singapore. It focuses on top-quality research in international law. CIL leads efforts to build skills in the Asia-Pacific area. They run workshops, conferences, and training for academics, government workers, and business professionals. The centre also pushes for research that shapes policies.
Fellowship Details
This is a one-year job that can extend to a second year if the work goes well. It starts in September 2026 at the Bukit Timah Campus in Singapore. Fellows work as research staff. The program comes from Dr. Nilufer Oral, the CIL director and a member of the International Law Commission. Professor Joseph Weiler, a visiting professor at NUS, helps lead it too.
Key Research Focus Areas
You can apply with projects in any part of international law. But they favor work on the Asia-Pacific region, climate change law, and ASEAN law and policy. Fellows should aim for research that mixes strong academics with real-world policy impact.
What the Program Offers
This fellowship helps scholars aim for university teaching jobs. You get one-on-one mentoring on your work. There are workshops on research planning, writing papers, getting published, and teaching. You also learn about guiding students and picking methods. Fellows join CIL’s daily activities, like sharing research, joining talks, and meeting guests.
Who Can Apply
You need a PhD in international law from the last two years. Or you must finish your PhD by July 31, 2026. Show strong, fresh work from your thesis. Include a clear plan for your next research. Submit your full PhD thesis as a PDF, your research plan, and one or two published pieces. Get three reference letters sent straight to [email protected]. At least one should come from your thesis advisor. Letters must cover your thesis quality, new project, and future promise.
How to Submit Your Application
Use the online NUS career portal. Aim to apply by April 30, 2026, for best chances. The last day is May 15, 2026. Prepare these items: a 500-600 word personal statement on your goals and background; your full CV with education, jobs, publications, and awards; PhD proof; a research proposal up to 3,000 words on questions, methods, impact, and outputs like articles or books; a 600-word summary; writing samples; and your references. Only shortlisted people hear back.
What Fellows Must Do
Spend the year on your research plan. Aim to publish or get accepted for one or two articles in good journals, or pitch a book to a top publisher. Join workshops and talks at CIL. Share your work at NUS events and outside conferences. Stay in Singapore full-time, except for short approved trips. Follow standard NUS leave rules.
Next Steps to Apply
Gather your documents now and send them through the NUS career portal. Apply early to stand out. The spot is open until May 15, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the Postdoctoral Fellowship?
It lasts one year and can extend to a second year based on performance. It starts in September 2026.
Who is eligible to apply for this fellowship?
You need a PhD in international law from the last two years or by July 31, 2026. Include strong thesis work and a clear research plan.
What are the application deadlines?
Apply by April 30, 2026, for the best chance, with the final deadline on May 15, 2026.
How do I submit my application?
Use the online NUS career portal. Submit your personal statement, CV, PhD proof, research proposal, writing samples, and references.
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