The University of Hong Kong (HKU) Social Sciences Global South Fellowship Scheme 2026: Fully Funded Visiting Fellowship for Scholars from the Global South (Hong Kong)

The HKU Social Sciences Global South Fellowship Scheme 2026 is a prestigious academic opportunity designed to foster international collaboration, research excellence, and knowledge exchange among scholars from the Global South. Hosted by the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), this fellowship enables researchers to engage in meaningful academic partnerships, contribute to global scholarship, and strengthen cross-cultural academic networks.

This initiative reflects HKU’s commitment to internationalization, interdisciplinarity, and global impact, creating a dynamic environment where scholars can collaborate on innovative research and share insights that address pressing global challenges.

About the HKU Global South Fellowship Scheme

The HKU Social Sciences Global South Fellowship Scheme is designed to:

• Promote academic exchange between HKU and scholars from the Global South
• Foster collaborative research projects with long-term impact
• Strengthen global academic networks and partnerships
• Encourage interdisciplinary knowledge sharing

Fellows will be hosted at HKU’s Faculty of Social Sciences and will actively participate in research, teaching, and academic engagement activities.

Fellowship Duration and Timeline

The fellowship offers flexible visiting periods aligned with HKU’s academic calendar:

• Duration: 1 to 3 months
• Available Periods:
  • Fall Semester: September to January
  • Spring Semester: February to June

Application Timeline

Applications are accepted twice per year, based on the intended visiting period:

Fall Semester:

• Call for Applications: April
• Deadline: May
• Announcement: By end of June

Spring Semester:

• Call for Applications: September
• Deadline: October
• Announcement: By end of November

Current Application Deadline:

• May 31, 2026 (Hong Kong Time)

Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support

Selected fellows receive a comprehensive support package, including:

1. Travel Support
   • Economy class return airfare up to HK$10,000 (reimbursable)
2. Daily Allowance
   • HK$1,500 per day (covers accommodation and living expenses)
3. Academic and Institutional Support
   • Access to HKU facilities
   • Opportunities to collaborate with leading academics
   • Participation in seminars, lectures, and research activities

Expected Activities and Responsibilities

Fellows are expected to actively contribute to HKU’s academic environment through:

1. Collaborative Research
   • Work with a Faculty Associate or other HKU faculty members
   • Produce at least one co-authored publication within one year
2. Academic Engagement
   • Deliver lectures or seminars
   • Participate in networking events and academic discussions
   • Provide training or mentorship to students
3. Knowledge Sharing
   • Contribute to intra-fellow exchange sessions
   • Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration
4. Reporting Requirements
   • Submit a completion report within 3 months after the fellowship
   • Share publication outcomes with the Faculty

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be professoriate staff (e.g., lecturers, assistant professors, or higher)
• Be affiliated with a university or comparable institution
• Be based in a Global South country
• Demonstrate strong academic and research achievements

Preference is given to early-career or junior scholars with potential for long-term collaboration.

Why You Should Apply

The HKU Global South Fellowship offers:

• A prestigious international academic experience
• Opportunities for high-impact research collaboration
• Access to a global network of scholars
• Financial support for travel and living expenses
• Enhanced academic visibility and career advancement

Application Process

To apply for the fellowship, applicants must follow these steps:

1. Identify a Faculty Associate
   • Contact an HKU Faculty member with similar research interests
   • The Faculty Associate must be an Assistant Professor or above
2. Initiate Contact
   • Send an email expressing interest in collaboration
   • Suggested subject line: “HKU FoSS Global South Fellowship Scheme”
3. Prepare Application
   • Develop a research proposal and supporting documents
4. Submit Application
   • Complete the official Online Application Form before the deadline

Selection Process

• Up to 10 fellows are selected per academic year
• Selection is based on:
  • Academic track record
  • Research achievements
  • Potential for collaboration and impact

Contact Information

For inquiries and additional support:

• Email: fossres@hku.hk

Click HERE for more information about the HKU Social Sciences Global South Fellowship Scheme 2026.

Conclusion

The HKU Social Sciences Global South Fellowship Scheme 2026 presents an exceptional opportunity for scholars from the Global South to engage in meaningful academic exchange, collaborative research, and global knowledge production.

By participating in this fellowship, researchers can expand their academic horizons, contribute to impactful scholarship, and build long-lasting international partnerships that shape the future of social sciences.

Discover more global Fellowship opportunities on OFY HERE.