Asia Research Institute (ARI) Postdoctoral Fellowships for FY 2026–2027
- Omran Aburayya
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
If you are an early-career researcher passionate about Asian humanities or social sciences, the Asia Research Institute at the National University of Singapore is now inviting applications for its prestigious Postdoctoral Fellowships FY 2026–27 — offering a unique two-year research opportunity under supportive mentorship, with start dates in June/July 2026 or December 2026/January 2027 .
🎓 Fellowship Summary
Location: Singapore (National University of Singapore – Asia Research Institute)
Host Institution: Asia Research Institute (ARI), NUS
Level: Postdoctoral Fellowship (humanities or social sciences focused on Asia)
Target Group: Recent PhD holders (or pending PhD with confirmed graduation by commencement) with publication track record and strong research proposal
Fields of Focus: Research aligned with one or two of ARI’s research clusters (applicants must indicate cluster(s) in proposal)
Coverage: S$6,000 per month (all-inclusive, covering living and housing expenses); travel assistance and possible support for fieldwork and conference attendance (subject to approval); Singapore Citizens/PRs eligible for provident fund benefits
Duration: Two years
Application Deadline: 30 September 2025 (no extensions)
Start Dates: June/July 2026 or December 2026/January 2027
Eligible To: Candidates who have secured a PhD from a reputable university by the start date—or pending PhD applicants with confirmation of graduation by commencement, supported by official Registrar’s letter
📚 Fellowship Overview
As an ARI Postdoctoral Fellow, you will:
Conduct independent, cutting-edge humanities or social sciences research focused on Asia, in alignment with ARI’s thematic research clusters;
Work closely under the guidance of a Cluster Leader, taking on leadership roles in organizing workshops, conferences, and contributing to cluster initiatives;
Engage actively in cluster projects, initiate new programs (including grant development), and pursue your own research publication plans;
Take on administrative duties and committee responsibilities as part of institute life;
Participate fully in ARI’s vibrant intellectual community—attend seminars, conferences, and social events .
Fellowship Benefits
Monthly Stipend: S$6,000 (all-inclusive coverage for housing and living costs)
Travel Support: Assistance for fieldwork and conference participation, upon approval
Additional Benefits: Provident fund support for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents; access to NUS employment benefits and resources; integration into ARI’s dynamic research environment
✅ Eligibility Criteria
PhD Requirement: Must have fulfilled all PhD requirements from a reputable institution by the start of the fellowship. Pending PhD applicants may apply if graduation is confirmed by commencement date; an official confirmation letter from your Registrar is required .
Publication Record: A robust existing track record of publications and credible future publication plan during the fellowship period is essential .
Research Alignment: Your proposed research must clearly connect to one or two ARI research clusters. You should demonstrate how your work will support cluster priorities and contribute to future grant opportunities .
📝 Application Procedure
Prepare a single combined PDF and upload it under the “CV” section in the NUS online application system:
Curriculum Vitae — up to 3 single-spaced pages.
Research Synopsis — up to 2 single-spaced pages; must include:
Relationship of proposed research to your doctoral work;
How it contributes to the relevant ARI research cluster(s) — specify up to 2 clusters;
Publication plans during the two-year fellowship .
Sample of Published Work — at least one short piece, preferably in English.
Referees — contact details for at least two referees (name, email, affiliation) .
ℹ️ Additional Info & Tips
Deadline Strictness: Applications close on 30 September 2025 — no extensions will be granted .
Timeline & Notification: Only shortlisted candidates will be notified—typically via email. If no response within ~10 weeks after the deadline, applicants may assume the position is filled .
Interview: Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an online interview with the relevant cluster leader(s) .
Conditional Offer: Offers depend on approval by NUS and the Singapore Ministry of Manpower—including issuance of an Employment Pass or relevant work permit for non-Singaporean candidates .
Cluster Queries: If you have questions on cluster fit or research themes, you are encouraged to contact the relevant cluster leader by email directly .
General Queries: Contact arisec@nus.edu.sg for application support or administrative questions .
💡 Final Thoughts
This ARI Postdoctoral Fellowship is an excellent opportunity for ambitious scholars aiming to deepen their expertise in Asia-focused humanities or social sciences. With a competitive stipend, institutional backing, and access to an interdisciplinary research environment, it is geared toward those who can contribute to scholarly excellence and cluster-based research funding strategies.
Submitting a standout application hinges on demonstrating both academic capacity (publications, research plan) and clear alignment with ARI’s research clusters. Engaging cluster leaders early, showing institutional fit, and crafting a compelling research synopsis will strengthen your candidacy.
