The Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS) is inviting applications for its Individual Fellowship program for the academic year 2027-2028. This fellowship offers scholars the opportunity to carry out independent research in the humanities and social sciences while becoming part of an interdisciplinary scholarly community. Fellows receive dedicated time and space to focus fully on their projects over a period of five or ten months.
About NIAS Fellowships
NIAS Individual Fellowships provide an immersive environment for original research. The program is designed to support scholars in developing innovative projects with academic and societal relevance. Each year, around 30 fellows are selected, representing a balance of academic disciplines, career stages, and international perspectives. Fellows benefit from intellectual exchange, peer feedback, and access to the extensive resources available at the Institute.
The fellowship encourages a diversity of participants, including scholars without permanent university or research institute positions. The working language is English, and applicants are expected to have a strong command of the language to engage fully with colleagues and maximize the benefits of the fellowship experience.
Who Can Apply
Applicants should have a minimum of three years of academic experience post-PhD. NIAS welcomes applications from scholars both in the Netherlands and abroad, across a wide range of humanities and social sciences disciplines. The program is open to scholars at various career stages and from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds.
NIAS is committed to equality and inclusivity. Applicants will not be excluded based on nationality, ethnicity, religion, or institutional affiliation. Exceptions apply in line with EU sanctions, currently affecting applicants affiliated with Russian or Belarusian universities and research institutes.
For Dutch residents, the fellowship provides the opportunity to engage with international peers while remaining embedded in Dutch academic and cultural networks. Fellows are expected to treat the residency as a full-time commitment, attending the Institute approximately four days a week.
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship is project-based, and applications are primarily evaluated on the quality and originality of the proposed research. Applicants should submit a full proposal of up to 1,500 words outlining the research topic, its relevance, and the anticipated benefits of working within NIAS’ interdisciplinary environment. CVs and publication records are also considered but are secondary to the research proposal.
NIAS maintains a fair allocation system to ensure diversity among fellows. A maximum of 216 applications will be reviewed, with balanced representation from Dutch-based scholars, applicants from select EU and other high-income countries, and scholars from the Global South.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their materials through the NIAS online application form. Required documents include:
- A research proposal (max. 1,500 words) describing the chosen topic, academic and societal relevance, and interdisciplinary benefits.
- A current CV.
- A publication list.
- Names and contact information of three international experts who could review the proposal without conflicts of interest.
Applications are open until 16 March 2026, 12:00 noon CET, and late or incomplete submissions will not be considered. Applicants who do not meet formal requirements will be notified by 1 May 2026, while those not selected for review will be informed by 15 May 2026. Final decisions will be communicated by the Director of NIAS by 15 December 2026.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The NIAS Individual Fellowship provides a rare opportunity for scholars to focus on their research in a dedicated, interdisciplinary environment. Fellows benefit from intellectual exchange, mentorship, and access to a vibrant scholarly community, enhancing both the quality and impact of their research. For both Dutch and international scholars, the program offers a platform to advance knowledge, build networks, and contribute meaningfully to their disciplines.
Application can be accessed here.
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