The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 is one of the most prestigious research opportunities in Asia, offering scholars, historians, and advanced researchers the chance to immerse themselves in world-class archival collections in Singapore. Hosted by the National Library Board Singapore, this fully funded six-month residential fellowship provides unparalleled access to rare historical materials and contemporary archives related to Singapore and Southeast Asia.
With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and impactful research, this fellowship is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their expertise while contributing to global scholarship in history, culture, and regional studies.
About the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship
The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship is a six-month residential programme based in the heart of Singapore. Fellows are required to conduct research using the extensive collections housed at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the National Archives of Singapore.
These collections are among the richest in Asia and include:
- Historical materials dating back to the 16th century
- Early European accounts of Southeast Asia
- Rare maps and navigational charts of the region
- Publications from Singapore’s earliest printing presses
- Archives of prominent Singaporean authors
- Government and institutional records of historical significance
The fellowship enables researchers to explore both historical and contemporary narratives, making it ideal for interdisciplinary and comparative research projects.
Fellowship Deadline
The application deadline for the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 is:
29 May 2026
Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare their research proposals and supporting documents well in advance to ensure a competitive submission.
Financial Benefits and Support
The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship offers a comprehensive financial package to support fellows throughout their residency:
- Monthly stipend for the full six-month duration
- One-time relocation allowance (for international fellows)
- Monthly accommodation allowance
- Reimbursement of a return economy-class air ticket
This funding structure ensures that fellows can fully dedicate their time to research without financial constraints.
Research Focus and Areas
The fellowship is open to a wide range of research topics, particularly those that engage with:
- Singapore’s historical development
- Southeast Asian regional studies
- Colonial and postcolonial narratives
- Cultural heritage and archival studies
- Political, economic, and social transformations in the region
Researchers are encouraged to design projects that make meaningful use of the library and archival collections.
Eligibility Criteria
The programme welcomes applications from:
- Curators
- Historians
- Academics
- Independent researchers
- Doctoral and postdoctoral scholars
- Individuals conducting advanced-level research
Applicants must demonstrate a strong track record of achievement in their respective fields and present a well-defined research proposal aligned with the available collections.
Fellowship Expectations and Obligations
Recipients of the fellowship are expected to:
- Reside in Singapore for the full six-month duration
- Conduct research primarily using the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library collections
- Actively engage with the academic and research community
- Produce scholarly outputs based on their research
The residency requirement ensures that fellows fully benefit from direct access to the archives and research environment.
Publishing Rights and Academic Contribution
Fellows retain the opportunity to publish their research findings, contributing to academic discourse and enhancing global understanding of Southeast Asian history and development.
The fellowship also encourages dissemination through:
- Academic publications
- Conferences and seminars
- Collaborative research initiatives
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic and professional achievements
- Quality and originality of the research proposal
- Relevance to the available collections
- Potential contribution to scholarship and knowledge production
The selection process is highly competitive, attracting candidates from across the globe.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit a complete application before the deadline, including:
- A detailed research proposal
- Academic CV
- Supporting documents demonstrating research experience
- Any additional required materials specified by the programme
Applicants should ensure that their proposal clearly demonstrates how they intend to utilize the archival collections.
Voices from Previous Fellows
The National Library Board Singapore has previously awarded the fellowship to outstanding researchers, including:
- Nurul Kaiyisah Mohd Latip
- Muneerah Ab Razak
- Sophia Chen Zhiting
- Chng Xin Ying
- Jennifer Yang
- Han Song
These fellows have highlighted the programme’s strong academic environment, rich archival access, and transformative research opportunities.
Why You Should Apply
The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship stands out as a unique opportunity to:
- Access rare and valuable historical collections
- Conduct high-impact research in a global hub
- Engage with leading scholars and institutions
- Advance your academic or professional career
For researchers passionate about Southeast Asia, history, and archival work, this fellowship offers an unmatched platform for intellectual growth and contribution.
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