Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2026 in Singapore (Fully Funded)

Are you a researcher or policymaker interested in exploring global power dynamics and their impact on Southeast Asia? The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2026, offered by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, is a fully funded opportunity to conduct policy-relevant research in a vibrant academic environment. This prestigious fellowship honors Professor Wang Gungwu for his 17-year tenure as Chairman of ISEAS. Read on to discover how you can apply for this exciting opportunity!

What is the Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme?

The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme aims to nurture the next generation of scholars and policymakers. Fellows conduct research on the influence of major global powers, particularly in Southeast Asia, focusing on areas like international politics, security, regional economics, and digital technology. The fellowship, lasting 2 to 6 months, provides a unique chance to engage with a network of regional scholars and potentially meet Professor Wang Gungwu himself.

Benefits of the Fellowship

Here’s what successful applicants can expect:

• Monthly Stipend: A fixed monthly stipend, including a housing subsidy, to cover living expenses in Singapore.
• Travel Support: Round-trip economy airfare between your home country and Singapore.
• Research Facilities: Access to office space, the ISEAS Library, computer equipment, and IT services.
• Networking Opportunities: Join a regional scholars’ network and contribute to ISEAS publications like ISEAS Perspective and Fulcrum.
• Exclusive Meeting: An invitation to meet Professor Wang Gungwu during your fellowship (subject to availability).

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to a wide range of applicants. Here’s who can apply:

• Post-Doctoral Researchers: Scholars who have completed their Ph.D. or equivalent degree.
• Mid-Career Policymakers: Professionals with relevant work experience and research interests, even without a Ph.D.
• Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries.
• Research Focus: Your work should align with the programme’s priority areas (see below).

Research Priority Areas

Fellows are expected to conduct policy-relevant research in one or more of the following areas:

• US-China Relations: Developments and their impact on Southeast Asia.
• Asia Pacific Security: Issues like the South China Sea and China-ASEAN relations.
• Economic Cooperation: Progress of initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.
• Rise of China: Its influence on Southeast Asian communities.
• Digital Technology: Use of digital media by countries to shape perceptions in Southeast Asia.

Responsibilities of Fellows

As a Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellow, you’ll be expected to:

• Reside in Singapore: Stay at ISEAS for the duration of your fellowship (2 – 6 months).
• Contribute to Publications: Write for ISEAS Perspective and Fulcrum in your research area.
• Present Research: Share your findings at an in-house seminar.
• Engage with the Community: Participate in ISEAS’s network of regional scholars.

How to Apply

The application process is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Cover Letter
   • CV/Resume
   • Research Statement (3 pages, double-spaced) detailing:
     • Research area
     • Methodology
     • Timeline
     • Expected outputs
     • Duration of fellowship at ISEAS
   • Two Letters of Reference
   • Proposal for partial/full cost-sharing (optional)
2. Submit Your Application:
   • Email your documents to: development@iseas.edu.sg
   • Subject Line: Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2026 – [Your First Name and Last Name]
3. Arrange Reference Letters:
   • Your two referees should send their letters directly to: development@iseas.edu.sg
   • Subject Line: Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2026 – [Reference Letter for Your First Name and Last Name]
4. Application Deadline:
   • The last date to apply is 30 July 2025.

Application Tips

To increase your chances of acceptance:

• Clearly align your research with the fellowship’s priority areas.
• Highlight your previous research experience and publications.
• Ensure your research statement is well-organized and error-free.
• Secure strong reference letters that vouch for your research capabilities.

Important Notes

• Health Insurance: Fellows are responsible for their own health insurance coverage.
• Cost-Sharing: Proposals for partial or full cost-sharing are welcome but not mandatory.
• Application Period: For the 2026 intake, applications were open from 6 May to 30 July 2025. Check the ISEAS website for updates on future intakes.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reach out to:

• Mr. Malcolm Yiong, Assistant Director, Development
• Address: ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, 30 Heng Mui Keng Terrace, Singapore 119614
• Email: development@iseas.edu.sg

Why Apply?

The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme is a fully funded opportunity to advance your research career while exploring critical global issues in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. With access to top-notch resources, a supportive academic community, and the chance to contribute to influential publications, this fellowship is a stepping stone for scholars and policymakers alike.

Ready to apply? Download the WGW VFP Recruitment 2026 Brochure and start preparing your application today