Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 in Singapore (Fully Funded)

Organiser	National Library Board, Singapore
Host Country	Singapore
Location	Lee Kong Chian Reference Library
Duration	6 Months
Deadline	29 May 2026
Funding	Fully Funded
Application Fee	None
Eligibility	Singaporean and International Researchers

The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 offers a fully funded, six-month residential research opportunity in Singapore. Open to both Singaporean and international candidates, this prestigious fellowship invites curators, historians, academics, and independent researchers with strong scholarly records to explore historical materials at the National Library Board’s Lee Kong Chian Reference Library. If you are pursuing doctoral, postdoctoral, or advanced research related to Singapore or Southeast Asia, this fellowship could provide vital support. Take advantage of comprehensive funding including airfare, accommodation, stipend, and relocation allowance by submitting your application before 29 May 2026.

Details About Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 in Singapore (Fully Funded)

• Host Country: Singapore
• Location: Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, National Library Board, Singapore
• Duration: Six months residential fellowship
• Funding Type: Fully funded including airfare, accommodation, stipend, and relocation allowance
• Deadline: 29 May 2026
• Eligible Applicants: Singaporean and international researchers, curators, historians, academics, doctoral/postdoctoral candidates
• Application Fee: None

About Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026

The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship is hosted by the National Library Board of Singapore, situated within the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library. This fellowship supports six months of residential research focused on Singapore and Southeast Asian historical collections. The library is a repository of invaluable historical materials, including early printed works, explorers’ accounts, maps, and writings by important Singaporean authors. Fellows will have direct access to these collections and are expected to live in Singapore during the fellowship period to maximize research engagement.

Financial Benefits

• Monthly Stipend: S$3,500 to cover living expenses, local transport, and photocopying
• Relocation Package: One-time payment of S$1,500 for overseas fellows
• Travel: One-time return airfare reimbursement up to S$1,500
• Accommodation: Monthly allowance reimbursed up to S$3,500

Research Focus Areas

Applicants should propose projects that highlight the library’s unique collections and relate to Singapore or Southeast Asia. Key areas include:

• Arts & Literature: Critical studies on contemporary Singaporean literature or theatre since the 1950s, development of visual, performing, or literary arts in Singapore and Malaya (early 20th century to Independence), and Asian cultural heritage through the Asian Children’s Literature Collection.
• Historical & Comparative Studies: Comparative studies of early Singapore and Malaya, social history of pre-independence Singapore and Malaya, and detailed research on the Straits Settlements from 1826 to 1946.
• Special Collections & Archives: World War II research using donor collections, studies on the Chinese community via clan association records.
• Architecture & Culture: Research on Singapore’s architectural history, including the cultural memory and lived experiences reflected in local design and literature.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to both Singaporean and international applicants, including African nationals.
• Applicants must have strong scholarly and research credentials with a proven record of achievement.
• Research proposals must align with the library’s collections and focus areas.
• Eligible candidates include historians, curators, academics, independent researchers, and scholars at doctoral, postdoctoral, or advanced research levels.
• Applicants should demonstrate potential for further excellence in their research.

Fellowship Expectations

• Fellows must reside in Singapore throughout the six-month period.
• Around 75% of the fellowship time should be devoted to research at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library.
• Fellows are expected to present their research findings and contribute to academic publications or papers.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Submit a clear, focused research proposal directly linked to Singapore or Southeast Asia.
• Highlight your previous research work, publications, or academic achievements.
• Explain how you plan to utilize the library’s unique collections for your research.

How to Apply for the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 in Singapore (Fully Funded)?

To apply, complete the official application form and submit it by 29 May 2026 through one of the following methods:

• Email: [email protected]
• Mail: The Administrator, Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship, National Library Headquarters, National Library Board, 100 Victoria Street, #14-01, Singapore 188064

Ensure your application is complete and well-prepared to improve your chances in this competitive selection process. For full details and to access the application form, visit the official fellowship page.