French Institutes for Advanced Study (FIAS) Fellowship Program 2026-2027

The French Institutes for Advanced Study (FIAS) Fellowship Program offers a fantastic opportunity for researchers worldwide to conduct innovative research in France. This fully-funded, 10-month fellowship supports scholars in the Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) and related fields, providing a vibrant academic environment across seven prestigious institutes in France. Here’s everything you need to know to apply for the 2026-2027 academic year

What is the FIAS Fellowship Program?

The FIAS Fellowship Program is an international mobility initiative that invites high-level researchers to work on groundbreaking projects in France. Hosted in seven Institutes for Advanced Study (IAS) located in Aix-Marseille, Cergy, Loire Valley (Orléans-Tours), Lyon, Montpellier, Nantes, and Paris, the program fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and supports innovative research. For 2026-2027, FIAS offers 28 fellowship positions, running from September 2026 to June 2027.

Who Can Apply?

The FIAS Fellowship is open to researchers of all nationalities and career levels, from postdoctoral scholars to senior scientists. Here are the key eligibility requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: You must hold a PhD with at least 2 years of full-time research experience by the application deadline (PhD training does not count toward this). Alternatively, candidates with a Master’s degree and 6 years of full-time research experience are also eligible.
• Mobility Rule: You must not have resided or worked in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to the application deadline (July 16, 2025). This ensures the program attracts international talent.
• Research Focus: The program prioritizes Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) but also welcomes interdisciplinary projects, including those from other sciences or arts that engage with SSH. Check the specific scientific priorities of each IAS before applying.

Fellowship Benefits

FIAS fellows receive a comprehensive support package to focus on their research:

• Monthly Stipend: A net living allowance of at least €2,200 per month.
• Accommodation: Provided or supported by the host institute.
• Research Budget: Up to €2,500 per year for research and training.
• Travel Expenses: One round-trip from your home country.
• Work Environment: Access to individual offices, research libraries, IT services, and a multidisciplinary cohort of fellows for collaboration.

Fellows enjoy academic freedom to organize their work and benefit from the vibrant scientific environment at their host IAS, with strong connections to local research centers.

You can also check: FAPESP Postdoctoral Fellowships in Brazil – Highest Paying Postdoc in Brazil

Available Fellowship Positions

For the 2026-2027 academic year, the 28 fellowship positions are distributed as follows:

• Aix-Marseille: 7
• Cergy: 3
• Loire Valley (Orléans-Tours): 2
• Lyon: 3
• Montpellier: 2
• Nantes: 4
• Paris: 7

Each institute has unique scientific priorities, so visit the FIAS website to align your research proposal with your chosen IAS.

Application Process

Applications are submitted online via www.fias-fp.eu. Here’s what you need to prepare:

• Online Application Form: Complete the form on the FIAS website.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include a detailed CV with a list of publications and contact details of three scholars familiar with your work.
• Research Proposal: A maximum 5-page proposal outlining your project, plus a 1-page bibliography.
• Diploma Copy: Submit a copy of your PhD or Master’s degree (with a certified translation if not in Latin script).
• Letter of Support: Required for some institutes (e.g., Loire Valley, Lyon, Montpellier, Paris IAS). This should come from a local scientific partner in France.

Important Notes:

• Applications must be in English.
• Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
• Ensure your application meets the maximum length criteria.

Key Dates

• Application Platform Opens: May 29, 2025
• Application Deadline: July 16, 2025, 6:00 PM (Paris time)
• Eligibility Check: July 2025
• Peer Review: August–November 2025
• Preselection Results: December 2025
• Final Selection: January–March 2026
• Results Announced: March 2026

Tips for a Strong Application

• Research the IAS: Tailor your proposal to the specific scientific priorities of your chosen institute. Visit FIAS Institutes for details.
• Highlight Excellence: The selection process is competitive, with 40% of the evaluation based on your academic excellence and 60% on the quality of your research proposal.
• Secure a Local Partner: For institutes requiring a letter of support, connect with a French university or research institution early.
• Be Clear and Concise: Ensure your research proposal is innovative, well-structured, and within the 5-page limit.

Why Choose FIAS?

The FIAS Fellowship Program is a unique opportunity to advance your research in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment in France. With generous funding, access to top research facilities, and a global network of scholars, it’s an ideal platform for postdoctoral and senior researchers to make significant contributions to their fields.

For more details, visit the FIAS website or contact the FIAS Program Officers at contact@fias-fp.eu. Don’t miss this chance to join a prestigious academic community in France

Apply by July 16, 2025, and take your research to the next level with FIAS!