The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2027 in Singapore offers accomplished researchers a fully funded six-month residential opportunity at the prestigious National Library Board (NLB) to explore Singapore’s rich historical collections and Southeast Asian archives. With a generous S$3,500 monthly stipend, relocation support, accommodation allowance up to S$3,500, and economy class return flights, this fellowship attracts top curators, historians, academics, and independent scholars worldwide seeking to advance research on Singaporean and regional heritage, culture, and history.
Basic Information about the Fellowship
- Fellowship name: Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2027.
- Host institution: National Library Board (NLB), Singapore.
- 6-month residential research fellowship in Singapore
- Conduct research at:
- Location: Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, Bugis, Singapore.
- Duration: 6 months residential fellowship.
- Application deadline: 29 May 2026.
- Start date: Flexible tenure starting before 31 August 2027.
- Eligibility: Open to Singaporeans and international researchers.
- Number of awards: Competitive (multiple annually).
University/Institution Details
The fellowship is hosted by Singapore’s National Library Board (NLB) at the iconic Lee Kong Chian Reference Library in the heart of downtown Singapore. Named after philanthropist and founder of the OCBC Bank Lee Kong Chian, this world-class research facility houses invaluable 16th-century materials on Singapore, Southeast Asia, contemporary collections, and digitized archives spanning literature, economics, politics, and cultural heritage. NLB’s research ecosystem connects fellows with Southeast Asian studies experts, public historians, and digital archivists in one of Asia’s most vibrant knowledge hubs.
Research Focus (2026 Priority Areas)
- Singapore literature or theatre (from 1950s)
- Early Singapore/Malaya comparative studies
- Arts & culture (early 20th century → independence)
- World War II materials
- Social history of pre-independence Singapore
- Architectural history
- Straits Settlements (1826–1946)
- Asian children’s literature
- Chinese community & clan associations
Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship Benefits
- Monthly stipend: S$3,500 (~USD 2,650) for living expenses, transport, photocopying.
- For overseas fellows:
- Airfare (up to S$1,500)
- Relocation grant: S$1,500
- Accommodation allowance (up to S$3,500/month)
- Research facilities + library access
- Research support: Full access to NLB collections, archives, digitization services.
- Workspace: Dedicated research carrel at Lee Kong Chian Reference Library.
- Networking: Invitations to seminars, public talks, publication opportunities.
Benefits not included
- Family/dependents accommodation or travel.
- Visa application fees.
- Private health insurance supplements.
- Publication costs post-fellowship.
- Extended stay beyond 6 months.
- Salary replacement from home institution.
Eligibility Criteria for the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship
Who Can Apply
- Open to local & international applicants
- Suitable for:
- Researchers, academics, historians, curators
- Independent scholars
- PhD / Postdoc / advanced researchers
- Must have strong research background
Requirements (During Fellowship)
- Stay in Singapore
- Spend at least 75% time in the library
- Give:
- 1 presentation to staff
- 1 public presentation
- Library has publishing rights to your research
- Failure to complete tasks → stipend may be cancelled
Work to Complete
- Resource guide (annotated bibliography)
- Research papers:
- 3,000 words
- 6,000 words
- Submit within 3 months after fellowship
Other Obligations
- Provide feedback/report on fellowship
- Suggest improvements for library collections
- Give copy of published work
- Acknowledge National Library support
Selection Criteria
- Original research idea
- Uses library/archive materials
- Feasible within 6 months
- Strong academic/research record
Required Documents for the Application
- Completed application form (personal/academic details).
- Curriculum Vitae (scholarly achievements, publications).
- Research proposal:
- Educational credentials (transcripts, diplomas).
- Passport copy.
- Two academic/professional references (contact details).
- Publication list and supporting research samples.
Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship Application Process
- Step 1: Review NLB collections; confirm research fit.
- Step 2: Develop research proposal tied to library holdings.
- Step 3: Complete online application form via NLB portal.
- Step 4: Upload CV, proposal, credentials, references.
- Step 5: Submit before 29 May 2026.
- Step 6: Selection committee review (June-July 2026).
- Step 7: Successful fellows notified; finalize travel/accommodation.
- Step 8: Reside in Singapore; commence 6-month tenure.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Collections-first: Demonstrate specific NLB materials your project requires.
- 6-month feasibility: Show realistic milestones/deliverables.
- Publication potential: Highlight academic outputs (articles, book chapters).
- Singapore relevance: Connect research to contemporary regional issues.
- Strong referees: Senior academics/publication collaborators preferred.
- Early submission: Avoid last-minute portal issues.
- Singapore visit: Prior NLB experience strengthens applications.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
Singapore: Expensive but efficient public transport/food.
Why Choose This Fellowship?
- Generous S$3,500 stipend + full accommodation/travel support.
- World-class collections – 16th-century Singapore/Southeast Asia archives.
- Prime Singapore location – global business/innovation hub.
- Flexible 6-month tenure perfect for sabbaticals/book projects.
- High publication impact – NLB prestige elevates research output.
- Networking goldmine – connect academics, policymakers, cultural leaders.
- Residential focus – distraction-free deep research environment.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fellowship
Fully funded details?
S$3,500/mo stipend + S$1,500 relocation + flights + S$3,500 housing.
Duration?
6 months residential at NLB Singapore.
PhD students eligible?
Yes – doctoral/postdoctoral/advanced researchers encouraged.
Singaporeans eligible?
Yes – open to all nationalities.
Family accompaniment?
No – individual researchers only.
Research topics?
Singapore/Southeast Asia history, culture, heritage using NLB collections.
