Applications are now open for the Wang Gungwu Fellowship 2027 in Singapore, a fully funded international fellowship hosted by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute. The fellowship supports scholars, researchers, and policymakers working on Southeast Asia-related issues, including geopolitics, regional economics, security, and digital technology.
The program offers selected fellows the opportunity to spend between two and six months at ISEAS Singapore conducting independent policy-relevant research in a leading academic environment focused on Southeast Asian studies.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: Singapore
- Host Institution: ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute
- Program Name: Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Program
- Fellowship Type: Fully Funded Fellowship
- Duration: 2 to 6 Months
- Eligible Applicants: International Applicants
- Application Deadline: 4 August 2026
About the Wang Gungwu Fellowship
The fellowship is named after Professor Wang Gungwu, former Chairman of the Board of Trustees at ISEAS, in recognition of his contributions to Southeast Asian studies and international research collaboration.
The program aims to support emerging scholars and policy experts studying major regional and global developments affecting Southeast Asia.
Degree Level
- Fellowship
Available Subjects
Applicants are encouraged to submit research proposals related to Southeast Asia and regional affairs, including:
- US–China relations and Southeast Asia
- Asia-Pacific security issues
- China–ASEAN relations
- Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
- Regional economic cooperation
- Digital technology and regional influence
- Geopolitics and international relations in Southeast Asia
Research projects should demonstrate strong policy relevance and regional significance.
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Round-trip airfare tickets
- Monthly stipend
- Housing subsidy
- Office space at ISEAS
- Computer equipment and IT support
- Full access to the ISEAS library and research resources
- Opportunities to publish research through ISEAS platforms
The fellowship allows researchers to focus on high-quality academic and policy research while working alongside regional experts.
Eligible Nationalities
The Wang Gungwu Fellowship 2027 is open to applicants from all countries.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the fellowship, applicants must:
- Be a postdoctoral researcher or mid-career policymaker
- Demonstrate strong academic or policy research interest
- Conduct research relevant to Southeast Asia
- Be available to stay at ISEAS during the fellowship period
- Submit a well-developed research proposal
Applicants with expertise in international relations, political science, economics, or regional studies are especially encouraged to apply.
Application Procedure
Required Documents
Applicants generally need to prepare the following documents:
- Cover letter
- Updated CV or resume
- Research statement or proposal
- Two reference letters
- Cost-sharing proposal (if applicable)
Reference letters must be sent directly by referees.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their application documents by email to the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute before the application deadline.
The application process includes:
- Preparing all required documents
- Writing a detailed research proposal
- Submitting the application by email
- Ensuring referees send recommendation letters directly
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Why Apply for the Wang Gungwu Fellowship?
The Wang Gungwu Fellowship provides international researchers with direct access to one of Asia’s leading policy research institutes. Fellows gain opportunities to conduct independent research, collaborate with regional experts, and contribute to important discussions on Southeast Asia’s political, economic, and strategic future.
For scholars interested in geopolitics, regional cooperation, and Southeast Asian affairs, the fellowship offers valuable academic exposure and professional networking opportunities in Singapore.