About the Fellowship
The CASI Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Contemporary India at the University of Pennsylvania is a prestigious, fully funded postdoctoral fellowship offered by the Center for the Advanced Study of India (CASI) for the 2026–2027 academic year. This fellowship supports early-career scholars in the humanities and social sciences whose research focuses on contemporary India. The fellowship enables researchers to pursue independent, high-quality scholarship while also engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration with CASI faculty, fellows, and visiting scholars. With no teaching responsibilities, the fellowship prioritises research, writing, and intellectual exchange. Fellows are integrated into CASI’s vibrant academic environment, contributing to seminars, workshops, and conferences. The position is based in Philadelphia, USA, and runs for 12 months, with the possibility of a one-year renewal subject to performance and budget approval.
Fellowship / Details
- Position Title: CASI Postdoctoral Research Fellow
- Host Institution: University of Pennsylvania
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: Centre for the Advanced Study of India (CASI)
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Research Field(s): Humanities and Social Sciences
- Fellowship Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship (Full-time)
- Level: Early-career
- Fellowship Duration: 12 months, renewable for one additional year
- Expected Start Date: July 2026
- Working Hours: As per institutional norms
- Funding/Compensation: Minimum USD 67,000 annual stipend, USD 3,500 research fund, shared-cost health insurance
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Supported Research Fields / Areas
- Contemporary India studies
- Political science
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Economics
- History (with a contemporary focus)
- Public policy and governance
- Interdisciplinary social science and humanities research
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD awarded in 2023 or later, or to be completed by 30 June 2026
- Research focus on contemporary India
- Ability to reside near the University of Pennsylvania during the fellowship
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong publication or working paper record
- Interdisciplinary or collaborative research experience
- Engagement with seminars, workshops, or academic events
Not Eligible:
- Applicants whose PhD was awarded before 2023
- Research projects not related to contemporary India
Fellowship / Job Benefits
- Minimum annual stipend of USD 67,000
- USD 3,500 research allowance
- Shared-cost health insurance
- No teaching obligations
- Access to CASI’s academic networks and institutional resources
- Office space and full library access
- Opportunities for professional development and collaboration
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research on contemporary India
- Collaborate on CASI-led research initiatives where appropriate
- Participate in and help organise seminars, workshops, and conferences
- Engage actively with visiting scholars and fellows
- Contribute to CASI’s intellectual community
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit the complete application online via the official Interfolio portal
Required Documents:
- Cover letter (maximum 2 pages) addressed to the Selection Committee, CASI
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement (maximum 2 pages, double-spaced)
- Writing sample (20–25 pages or equivalent published work)
- Contact details of two academic referees
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Open now
- Deadline: Open until filled (review begins 2 February 2026)
- Interview Period: If applicable
- Final Results Notification: To be announced
- Fellowship Start Date: July 2026
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: Center for the Advanced Study of India (CASI)
- Official Fellowship Notification: click here
- Apply Online Here: click here
Contact for Queries: casi@sas.upenn.edu
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