Wang Gungwu Fellowship in Singapore 2026-27 (Fully Funded)

The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme, hosted by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, honors Professor Wang Gungwu. It invites young scholars and mid-career policymakers to conduct policy-relevant research on big-power relations and their impact on Southeast Asia. Fellows will explore topics such as US-China relations, Asia Pacific security issues (e.g., South China Sea, China-ASEAN relations), progress and prospects of global/regional economic cooperation initiatives (e.g., Belt and Road Initiative and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership), the rise of China and its impact on Southeast Asian communities, and the use of digital media and technology by countries to further their interests and influence perceptions in Southeast Asian countries. The fellowship duration is between 2 to 6 months, requiring fellows to be in residence at ISEAS.

This is a fully funded fellowship. Successful applicants will receive a fixed monthly stipend, which includes a housing subsidy. Round-trip economy airfare between the fellow's home country and Singapore will be covered. Fellows will have access to office space, computer equipment, IT services, and the ISEAS Library and other facilities. There is also a chance to meet Professor Wang Gungwu.

Applicants should be postdoctoral researchers or mid-career policymakers. Mid-career policymakers without a PhD degree are also eligible if they possess relevant professional experience and research interest. Applicants from different countries are encouraged to apply, provided they have a strong research interest related to Southeast Asia and international policy issues. They must be able to contribute to policy research and academic discussions.

Required documents include a cover letter, CV/Resume, a research statement (detailing area, methodology, timeline, expected outputs, and duration), and two letters of reference. A proposal for partial or full cost-sharing may be submitted if applicable. Academic certificates/transcripts are also required.

Applicants must submit their application and supporting documents through the official FormSG application link, which is typically found on the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute's official website. Both referees should submit their Letters of Recommendation directly via email to development@iseas.edu.sg, with the subject line: “Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2027 – Reference Letter for (First Name and Last Name).” Applicants should carefully complete the online application form and upload all required documents before the deadline.

Selected fellows are expected to stay at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute for the entire duration of the fellowship. Fellows are required to contribute to ISEAS Perspective and ISEAS Fulcrum publications and present their research findings at an in-house seminar. They will also become part of a network of regional scholars.