YCAR Postdoctoral Fellowship in Asian Studies 2025–2026 at York University

YCAR Postdoctoral Fellowship in Asian Studies (2025–2026)

The York Centre for Asian Research (YCAR) at York University in Toronto, Canada, is offering a competitive and enriching Postdoctoral Fellowship in Asian or Asian Diaspora Studies for the 2025–2026 academic year. This is an outstanding opportunity for early-career scholars to engage in independent research under the guidance of a leading expert in their field, while contributing to the intellectual community at YCAR.

The fellowship runs from 01 September 2025 to 31 August 2026, with a possibility of renewal for a second year. Fellows will receive a salary of $60,000 CAD per year and are expected to work in residence at York University during the term of their fellowship.

Who Should Apply?

The fellowship is open to applicants who have earned a PhD (or will have completed their degree by the start date) in a range of disciplines within the humanities or social sciences. These include, but are not limited to: anthropology, sociology, political science, public health, development studies, media studies, geography, history, environmental studies, art history, and performance studies.

Applicants must focus their research on Asia or Asian diasporas—this can include historical, modern, or contemporary themes. Although international applicants are encouraged to apply, they must be eligible to work in Canada. Preference will be given to those within five years of receiving their doctorate.

What Does the Fellowship Involve?

Fellows will be hosted at YCAR and will pursue a self-directed research project under the supervision of a full-time YCAR Faculty Associate. This mentorship is a core part of the experience, allowing the fellow to grow professionally while contributing to ongoing academic dialogues within YCAR.

In addition to research, fellows are expected to:

• Participate actively in YCAR seminars and programming

• Organize one academic workshop in consultation with the YCAR director

• Deliver a public lecture on their research during the fellowship year

The fellow will be immersed in a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment and will have opportunities to engage with scholars and students working across various areas of Asian and diaspora studies.

Application Requirements

To apply, candidates must submit the following documents via Email  by 30 April 2025

1. A cover letter outlining your academic background and interest in the fellowship

2. A curriculum vitae (CV) (maximum five pages)

3. A two-page research proposal detailing the project you intend to pursue during the fellowship

4. A writing sample (maximum 25 pages, double-spaced)

5. Contact information for two referees

6. A letter of support from a YCAR Faculty Associate who agrees to act as your mentor during the fellowship

YCAR provides a searchable list of Faculty Associates on its website to help applicants identify a suitable supervisor: YCAR Associates List

Selection Process and Timeline

Applications will be reviewed following the submission deadline. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for Zoom interviews in early June 2025. Final decisions will be made and communicated by 01 July 2025.

The successful fellow is expected to begin their term on 01 September 2025.

Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

York University and YCAR are committed to employment equity and a supportive environment for all scholars. The fellowship especially encourages applications from individuals who identify as women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of racialized communities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.

This postdoctoral position represents a valuable opportunity for young scholars to advance their research, broaden their academic networks, and contribute meaningfully to the evolving field of Asian and Asian Diaspora Studies.

Conclusion

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