Summary

The Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS) at Kyoto University invites applications for its 2027 Fellowship. Designed for accomplished scholars and experienced librarians, this fellowship provides a unique opportunity to conduct research in Kyoto, Japan, benefiting from CSEAS’s rich academic environment.

  • 📢 Call Open: Applications invited for CSEAS Fellowship 2027.
  • 📅 Fellowship Start Dates: Available from March–June 2027, with flexible start dates depending on availability.
  • 🎓 Eligibility: Open to accomplished scholars under 65 (exceptions possible); PhD required unless approved; not for current students or postdocs; separate slot for experienced librarians.
  • 🔁 Reapplication Rule: Previous fellows can reapply only after 6 years.
  • 📝 Application Process: Apply online with CV (max 5 pages), 2-page research plan, and two recommendation letters (submitted separately).
  • 📧 Submission Format: All documents must be sent in PDF via email along with the online application.
  • ⏳ Deadline: Applications must be submitted by April 30, 2026; results announced by end of July 2026.
  • 🌏 About Fellowship: Established in 1975, supporting research on Southeast Asia with over 450 past scholars.
  • 🏫 Host Institution: Conducted at Kyoto University’s CSEAS in Kyoto, Japan, offering rich academic resources and environment.
  • 📚 Research Scope: Encourages multidisciplinary, comparative, and regional studies related to Southeast Asia.
  • 🤝 Who Can Apply: Includes scholars, professionals, journalists, NGO workers, librarians, and other experts.
  • ⏱️ Duration: Fellowships last between 3 to 6 months.
  • 🏆 Selection: Around 14 fellowships awarded annually on a competitive basis.
  • 💰 Benefits: Covers travel, living expenses, research funds, and possible domestic travel support.
  • 🏡 Residency Requirement: Fellows must stay in Kyoto and deliver a public lecture during the fellowship.
  • 📢 Academic Engagement: Participation in seminars, conferences, and publications is encouraged.
  • 🌸 Experience: Offers a peaceful, resource-rich environment in Kyoto, ideal for focused research and collaboration.
  • 🌐 Impact: Promotes global academic exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, and Southeast Asian studies advancement.

Designation

CSEAS Fellowship (Five fellowships, including one librarian position)

PositionDurationNumber of Positions
Fellowship for Scholars3-6 months4
Librarian Fellowship3-6 months1

Research Area

Candidates should focus on Southeast Asian studies, with an emphasis on comparative and interdisciplinary research.

Location

Kyoto, Japan

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Age: Applicants must be under 65 years at the time of the fellowship appointment. Individuals over 65 may be considered only in exceptional cases.
  • Academic Requirement:
  • Must hold a PhD (exception for candidates without a PhD approved by a CSEAS faculty member).
  • Not currently engaged in graduate degree programs or postdoctoral studies.
  • Librarian Position: Open only to experienced librarians.
  • Previous Fellows: Eligible to reapply only after six years since their last fellowship.

Job Description

Participants are expected to:

  • Reside in Kyoto for the fellowship duration.
  • Conduct and present research.
  • Participate actively in CSEAS conferences, seminars, and workshops.
  • Submit articles to the CSEAS journal, “Southeast Asian Studies,” or the “Kyoto Review of Southeast Asia.”
  • Deliver a public lecture during the fellowship term.

How to Apply

  1. Submit an application via the online form.
  2. Attach the following documents in PDF format:
  • A completed online application form.
  • A curriculum vitae (max 5 pages) detailing major publications.
  • A concise research plan outlining the research project for the fellowship term (max 2 pages, double-spaced).
  • Two recommendation letters, sent directly from referees via email to CSEAS.

Email for submission: grants@cseas.kyoto-u.ac.jp

Last Date for Apply

Applications must be submitted by November 30, 2026.