The Asia Research Institute (ARI) at the National University of Singapore is offering Postdoctoral Fellowships for 2026–27 in humanities and social sciences with a focus on Asia. The two-year Asia Research Institute Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026-27, starting in mid-2026 or early 2027, provides S$6,000 monthly to cover living expenses. Fellows will conduct independent research aligned with ARI’s clusters, work with senior scholars, and contribute to academic activities such as workshops, conferences, and collaborative projects. They will also engage in publications, grant applications, and some administrative duties. This is a valuable opportunity for scholars aiming to advance their research careers in Asia-focused studies at a leading university.
Basic Information about the Scholarships
The Asia Research Institute (ARI) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is offering prestigious Postdoctoral Fellowships for the fiscal year 2026-27. These fellowships provide a unique opportunity for early-career researchers specializing in humanities or social sciences focused on Asia to conduct independent, cutting-edge research. The fellowship tenure is for two years, with commencement windows in June/July 2026 or December 2026/January 2027. The application deadline for this opportunity is 30 September 2025, and no extensions will be granted. Applicants must submit their applications online as one combined PDF through the NUS application portal.
- Location: Kent Ridge Campus
- Organization: Asia Research Institute
- Department : Research
- Job requisition ID : 29880
ARI Postdoctoral Fellowship Clusters:
- Migration and Mobilities
- Food Politics and Society
- Inter-Asia Engagements
- Science, Technology and Society
University/Institution Details
The fellowship is hosted by the Asia Research Institute (ARI) at the National University of Singapore (NUS), a leading global research university. ARI is known for its interdisciplinary research focus on Asia and offers access to vibrant intellectual resources, seminars, and conferences. Fellows will join a dynamic academic community housed on NUS’s Kent Ridge Campus in Singapore, promising a stimulating environment for scholarly growth and collaboration.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
The fellowship targets scholars working within Asian humanities and social sciences. Research proposals must align with one or two of ARI’s Research Clusters, which cover diverse themes and priorities relating to Asia. Candidates need to specify the cluster(s) in their research proposals. The ARI encourages research that contributes to knowledge production on Asia and supports grant development initiatives.
Asia Research Institute Postdoctoral Fellowships Benefits
- Monthly Stipend: S$6,000 (Singapore Dollars), an all-inclusive sum covering housing and living expenses. This amount equates roughly to USD 4,200 per month (subject to exchange rates).
- Travel Assistance: Support for approved travel related to research fieldwork or conferences.
- Provident Fund Benefits: Available for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents only.
- Access to NUS Resources: Employment benefits, research support, and participation in ARI’s workshops, seminars, and social events.
- Research Funding: Possibility to apply for funding support for fieldwork and conference attendance, subject to approval.
Benefits Not Included
- University-provided Housing: Fellows are responsible for their own accommodation arrangements in Singapore.
- Healthcare: Standard healthcare or insurance benefits are not explicitly mentioned; fellows may need to secure personal coverage.
- Tax Exemptions: All remuneration and benefits are subject to Singapore’s local taxation laws.
Eligibility Criteria for the Asia Research Institute Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Must hold a PhD from a reputable university by the start date.
- Current PhD candidates may apply if confirmed for graduation (official letter required).
- Must have a track record of publications and plans for future high-quality publications.
- A demonstrated track record of quality publications and a credible plan for future academic outputs during the fellowship tenure are essential.
- Research proposal must be clearly aligned with one or two of ARI’s designated Research Clusters.
- Potential applicants should demonstrate an ability to contribute to grant applications and participate actively in cluster activities.
- Open internationally, but non-Singaporean applicants must obtain relevant work permits or Employment Passes as required.
Terms of Appointment
- 2-year postdoctoral fellowship.
- Start dates: Jun/Jul 2026 or Dec 2026/Jan 2027.
- Salary: S$6,000/month (inclusive of housing & living allowance).
- Singapore Citizens/PRs: provident fund benefits.
- Salary/benefits subject to local taxation.
- Support available for research fieldwork & conferences (upon approval).
- Expected to actively join ARI seminars, conferences, and events.
- Other NUS staff benefits apply (subject to change).
Required Documents for the Application
Candidates must submit a single combined PDF uploaded under the “CV” section of the NUS online system, which includes:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) — Maximum of 3 single-spaced pages.
- Research Synopsis — Up to 2 single-spaced pages outlining:
- Relation of proposed research to prior (especially doctoral) work.
- How the research contributes to ARI’s research cluster(s), naming up to 2 clusters.
- Detailed publication plans for the fellowship period.
- Sample of Published Work — At least one short item, preferably in English.
- Referees’ Details — Names, emails, and affiliations of at least two referees.
It is important that all materials, including research proposals, are submitted before the deadline.
Asia Research Institute Postdoctoral Fellowships Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Identify Relevant ARI Research Clusters: Review ARI’s thematic priorities and select one or two clusters for applying.
- Prepare Application Materials: Combine CV, detailed research synopsis, sample publication, and referee contacts into one PDF.
- Submit Online: Apply via the NUS application portal before 30 September 2025.
- Await Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates will be notified, typically via email within 10 weeks post-deadline.
- Online Interview: Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview with cluster leaders.
- Conditional Offer: Job offers are contingent on NUS and Singapore Ministry of Manpower approvals and, for international fellows, issuance of the appropriate work pass.
- Begin Fellowship: Fellows start in either mid-2026 or early 2027.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Early Application: Submit well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
- Clear Research Relevance: Explicitly connect your research to ARI clusters and demonstrate potential for grant collaboration.
- Strong Publication Record: Highlight existing and planned scholarly outputs clearly.
- Professional Presentation: Use a concise, well-organized combined PDF for all documents.
- Engage with Cluster Leaders: Contact relevant cluster leaders by email for guidance or queries before applying.
- Prepare for Interview: Practice articulating your research relevance and publication strategy clearly.
- Follow Instructions Meticulously: Adhere strictly to page limits and application protocols.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
Monthly expenses for international fellows typically range as follows:
- Accommodation: $800 – $1,500 (depending on location and type)
- Food and Groceries: $300 – $600
- Transportation: $80 – $150
- Miscellaneous (utilities, leisure, insurance): $200 – $400
Thus, an estimated monthly budget is around $1,400 to $2,600 USD, which is comfortably covered by the fellowship stipend.
Why Choose This Asia Research Institute Postdoctoral Fellowships ?
- Competitive Fellowship Amount: S$6,000/month covers housing and living, providing financial stability.
- World-Class Research Environment: NUS and ARI offer a top academic atmosphere with extensive interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Focus on Asia Studies: Unique opportunity to specialize in Asian humanities and social sciences with leading scholars.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities to lead workshops, conferences, and engage in grant development.
- Global Networking: Access to seminars, conferences, and an academic community in the vibrant city of Singapore.
- Two-Year Security: A substantial appointment duration conducive to completing major research projects.
- Travel and Research Support: Additional assistance for fieldwork and conference participation.
- Career Advancement: Solid publication track record from the fellowship enhances academic career prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fellowship
Q1: Can I apply if my PhD is not completed yet?
A: Yes, if you can provide official confirmation of graduation by the fellowship start date.
Q2: Does the fellowship cover healthcare or insurance?
A: Standard healthcare coverage is not specified; fellows should secure personal insurance.
Q3: Are non-Singaporean applicants eligible?
A: Yes, but must obtain Employment Pass or appropriate work permits.
Q4: Is housing provided?
A: No, fellows must arrange private accommodation.
Q5: How are applications evaluated?
A: Based on publication record, research proposal quality, alignment with ARI clusters, and potential for collaborative grant work.
Q6: Will there be an interview?
A: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.
Official Link:
This ARI Postdoctoral Fellowship is an exceptional opportunity for scholars looking to advance their academic careers with a strong focus on Asia-centered research in a leading global university setting. The fellowship offers excellent financial and institutional support, making it highly competitive and desirable for ambitious candidates worldwide.