About the Fellowship
The RSSS Visiting Fellowship Scheme at the Australian National University (ANU) is a prestigious opportunity for both distinguished and early-career researchers in the social sciences to engage in short-term residencies in Canberra. Designed to strengthen international and national collaborations, this fellowship supports scholars in contributing to and enriching the vibrant research culture at ANU. Fellows will work closely with leading academics, host seminars and public events, and engage postgraduate scholars. The scheme promotes interdisciplinary research, aligns with the university’s strategic objectives, and enhances ANU’s standing as a global centre of academic excellence. It’s an ideal platform for scholars seeking to expand their networks, elevate their research profile, and contribute meaningfully to pressing social science inquiries.
Fellowship / Details
- Position Title: RSSS Visiting Fellow
- Host Institution: Research School of Social Sciences, Australian National University (ANU)
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: ANU Research School of Social Sciences
- Location: Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Research Field(s): Social Sciences (disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and multidisciplinary areas)
- Fellowship Type: Visiting Fellowship with Grant (Full-time, short-term residency)
- Level: Distinguished / Early-career researchers
- Fellowship Duration: 4 to 8 weeks (can be split into two visits within the same year)
- Expected Start Date: Flexible within 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time presence expected during the fellowship period
- Funding/Compensation: Up to AU$11,000, including up to AU$3,000 for return airfare and AU$8,000 towards rental accommodation
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD or equivalent academic qualification in a relevant social science discipline
Supported Research Fields / Areas
- Sociology
- Political Science
- History
- Philosophy
- Economics
- Demography
- Law
- Interdisciplinary Social Science themes
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Distinguished or early-career researcher from an Australian or international academic institution
- Demonstrated academic excellence and a strong publication track record
- Research alignment with RSSS priorities
- Commitment to active participation on campus during fellowship
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in collaborative or interdisciplinary research
- Ability to contribute to postgraduate training and public engagement
- Strong international research network
Not Eligible:
- Researchers who have held this fellowship within the past three years
- Fellows not able to commit to full-time residency in Canberra during the award period
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Monthly stipend (up to AU$11,000 total)
- Travel allowance (airfare reimbursement up to AU$3,000)
- Accommodation support (up to AU$8,000)
- Access to ANU library, office space, and computing facilities
- Opportunity to host masterclasses, seminars, and public lectures
- Networking and collaboration with leading scholars
- Institutional affiliation and academic visibility
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake a collaborative research project in alignment with RSSS priorities
- Engage with staff and students through seminars, workshops, or masterclasses
- Host at least one training event for postdocs/PhD scholars
- Deliver one public-facing lecture or seminar
- Submit a final report (endorsed by the host School/Centre)
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit your nomination and application via the official RSSS platform
🔗 RSSS Visiting Fellowship Application Form (PDF)
Required Documents:
- Completed nomination form
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research proposal including aims, significance, and collaboration outline
- Description of proposed training/public events
- Summary of institutional benefits and alignment
- Evidence of collaboration with other Schools/Centres (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Currently Open
- Deadline: 30 June 2025 (11:59 PM AEST)
- Review Period: July 2025
- Final Results Notification: August 2025
- Fellowship Start Date: Flexible within 2026
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: https://www.rsss.anu.edu.au
- Official Fellowship Notification: RSSS Visiting Fellows | Research School of Social Sciences
- Apply Online Here: Application Portal Link