Discover Singapore Through Research Excellence



The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 in Singapore is now open for applications. This fully funded six month residency is an outstanding opportunity for researchers, historians, scholars, academics, and independent professionals from around the world who want to explore the history and culture of Singapore and Southeast Asia.↚

 Discover Singapore Through Research Excellence

Hosted by the National Library Board Singapore at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, the fellowship gives participants access to rare archives, manuscripts, historical records, and valuable collections that support advanced academic research.

Fellowship Details

Host Country: Singapore

Host Institution: National Library Board Singapore

Research Location: Lee Kong Chian Reference Library

Duration: 6 Months

Funding Type: Fully Funded

Application Deadline: 29 May 2026

Program Type: Fellowship Program

Who Can Apply

The fellowship is open to doctoral researchers, postdoctoral scholars, independent researchers, academics, historians, and curators whose work is related to Singapore and Southeast Asia.

Research Areas

Applicants may submit research proposals in areas such as contemporary Singaporean literature and theatre, Asian children’s literature, visual and performing arts, social history of Singapore and Malaya, colonial and post colonial studies, the Straits Settlements from 1826 to 1946, World War II archival research, Chinese community records, rare manuscripts and books, architectural history, cultural heritage, and urban identity.

Eligibility Conditions

Applicants must prepare a research proposal that matches the collections available at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library.

The proposal should show originality, strong academic value, and the ability to produce important research results.

Benefits

The fellowship provides full financial support for the entire six month period.

Selected fellows will have the opportunity to live in Singapore, conduct research in a world class library, and gain access to rare archives and special collections.

The program also helps participants build academic connections, improve their research experience, and contribute to important studies about Singapore and Southeast Asia.

Responsibilities

Selected fellows must remain in Singapore during the fellowship period and spend at least seventy five percent of their time conducting research at the library.

Participants are also expected to present their research findings and contribute to papers, publications, and other academic work.

How to Apply

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