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)
| Position | Duration | Number of Positions |
|---|---|---|
| Fellowship for Scholars | 3-6 months | 4 |
| Librarian Fellowship | 3-6 months | 1 |
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
- Submit an application via the online form.
- 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.



