About the Fellowship
The KITLV Visiting Fellowship at the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) offers a unique opportunity for scholars in Southeast Asian and Caribbean Studies to advance their independent research projects in a world-class academic environment. Fellows are invited to pursue publications or research initiatives of their choice, with access to KITLV’s rich archives, interdisciplinary resources, and international scholarly networks. The fellowship promotes academic mobility and collaboration, supporting projects that contribute to global knowledge in the social sciences and humanities. This three-month temporary, non-salaried position provides funding for travel, accommodation, and living cost allowances, allowing researchers to focus on high-quality scholarship while engaging with the vibrant intellectual community in Leiden, Netherlands.
Fellowship / Details
- Position Title: KITLV Visiting Fellowship
- Host Institution: Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences / Koninklijke Nederlandse Akademie van Wetenschappen (KNAW)
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: KITLV
- Location: Leiden, Netherlands
- Research Field(s): Southeast Asian Studies, Caribbean Studies, Cultural Studies, Social Sciences, Humanities
- Fellowship Type: Visiting Fellowship
- Level: Recognised Researcher (R2)
- Fellowship Duration: 3 months
- Expected Start Date: 1 September 2026 / 1 December 2026
- Working Hours: 38 hours per week
- Funding/Compensation: Economy travel fare, accommodation reimbursement up to €2,000/month, monthly cost-of-living allowance
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD in Social Sciences or Humanities
Supported Research Fields / Areas
- Southeast Asian Studies
- Caribbean Studies
- Cultural Studies
- Interdisciplinary Social Science & Humanities
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Social Sciences or Humanities
- Research in Southeast Asian or Caribbean Studies
- Prepared to reside in the Netherlands for the fellowship period
- Not a (tax) resident of the Netherlands
- Ability to demonstrate steady income during fellowship
Preferred Qualifications:
- Publications in relevant fields
- International research experience
- Collaborative research experience
Not Eligible:
- Current residents or tax residents of the Netherlands
Fellowship / Job Benefits
- Economy class return travel
- Accommodation reimbursement up to €2,000/month
- Monthly living cost allowance
- Formal letter of invitation for visa/residence permit
- Access to KITLV archives and research facilities
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research in Southeast Asian or Caribbean Studies
- Prepare publications or academic outputs
- Engage with KITLV scholars and networks
- Contribute to interdisciplinary research projects
Application Process
How to Apply:
- Submit the completed application form via the AcademicTransfer portal
- Attach CV (max 2 pages) and a detailed research proposal
- Address application to Program Chair, Prof. Dr. Ward Berenschot (do not email directly)
- Submit before the deadline
Required Documents:
- Completed application form
- CV / Resume
- Research proposal/project summary
- Optional supporting documents (publications, endorsements)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Now
- Deadline: 22 March 2026, 22:59 CET
- Final Results Notification: End of April 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: 1 September 2026 / 1 December 2026
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: KNAW KITLV
- Official Fellowship Notification: Click here
- Apply Online Here: Submit Application
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