Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 Application Now
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Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026Application Now Open, The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship Programme is a prestigious six-month residential fellowship that offers researchers the opportunity to conduct in-depth studies using the extensive collections of the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the National Archives of Singapore. Fellows gain access to a rich range of resources, including rare historical records dating back to the 16th century, valuable archival materials on Singapore and Southeast Asia, as well as contemporary collections. The programme supports advanced research across various disciplines and provides scholars with a unique environment to explore, analyze, and contribute to the understanding of the region’s history, culture, and development.
Overview of Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 Application Now Open
The Lee Kong Chian Reference Library houses an exceptional collection of rare and historically significant resources that document the history of Singapore and Southeast Asia. Its holdings include publications from Singapore’s earliest printing presses, early European narratives about the region, historical maps and navigational charts, and archival materials from notable Singaporean authors. Complementing these resources, the National Archives of Singapore preserves records of national and historical importance sourced from government agencies, private collections, and international archival institutions.
The fellowship welcomes applications from curators, historians, academics, and independent researchers who have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields. Individuals engaged in doctoral, postdoctoral, or other advanced research projects are also strongly encouraged to apply.
Fellows are required to reside in Singapore for the duration of the six-month programme and devote their time primarily to research using the collections of the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library. Successful candidates receive a monthly stipend throughout the fellowship period. International fellows are additionally provided with a one-time relocation grant, a monthly accommodation allowance, and reimbursement for a return economy-class airfare, ensuring they can fully focus on their research activities while in Singapore.
Research Areas for Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026
For the 2026 fellowship cycle, preference will be given to research proposals that focus on the following themes:
Critical studies of Singapore’s contemporary literature or theatre from the 1950s onwards, examining their development, influence, and cultural significance.
Comparative research on early Singapore and/or Malaya, drawing on both Western and Asian scholarly perspectives to provide a broader understanding of the region’s history.
Arts and culture in Singapore and Malaya from the early 20th century to independence, including the evolution of visual arts, performing arts, and literature among the wider population, specific ethnic groups, and underrepresented communities.
Research on World War II-related materials, particularly collections donated by individuals such as Toshio Egawa and Lim Shao Bin, to explore wartime experiences and historical narratives.
Social history of pre-independence Singapore and Malaya, focusing on everyday life, communities, and societal developments before independence.
Architectural history of Singapore, including studies on the cultural memory of architecture, its representation in literature and culture, and the lived experiences associated with architectural spaces and urban design.
The history of the Straits Settlements (Penang, Malacca, and Singapore) between 1826 and 1946, examining political, economic, and social developments during the colonial period.
Exploration of Asia’s cultural heritage through the Asian Children’s Literature Collection, highlighting literary traditions, cultural values, and historical perspectives reflected in children’s literature.
Studies of the Chinese community using clan association archives, including collections from organizations such as the Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan, Chin Kang Huay Kuan, and Kim Mui Hoey Kuan, to better understand community networks, migration, and cultural heritage.
These priority areas aim to encourage original research that deepens understanding of Singapore’s history, culture, literature, architecture, and regional connections within Southeast Asia and beyond.
Who Can Apply for the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026?
The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship is open to both local and international applicants who are capable of undertaking approved research projects that enhance understanding and awareness of the library’s collections. The fellowship seeks individuals with strong academic, scholarly, or research credentials and a demonstrated commitment to high-quality research.
Applications are welcomed from:
Curators
Historians
Academics and university researchers
Independent researchers with proven expertise in their field
The fellowship also encourages applications from scholars pursuing doctoral, postdoctoral, or other advanced research programs. Applicants should ideally possess a strong record of achievement in their chosen area of study and demonstrate the potential to make significant contributions to research through the use of the collections housed at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the National Archives of Singapore.
Successful candidates are expected to present a well-developed research proposal, showcase their research capabilities, and demonstrate how their project will contribute to a deeper understanding of Singapore, Southeast Asia, or related historical and cultural themes.
Fellowship Benefits and Terms of Award
The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship is awarded for a period of six months, providing selected researchers with financial support and access to valuable research resources during their stay in Singapore.
Successful fellows will receive a monthly stipend of S$3,500 to help cover living expenses, local transportation, and research-related costs such as photocopying and document reproduction.
For international fellows, the programme also offers additional support, including:
A one-time relocation grant of S$1,500
Reimbursement of a return economy-class airfare of up to S$1,500
A monthly accommodation allowance of up to S$3,500 on a reimbursement basis
In addition to the financial benefits, all fellows will be provided with:
A dedicated research workspace at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library
A computer with internet access to support their research activities
Full access to the library’s extensive collections and archival resources
Guidance from a library staff member who can assist in identifying relevant materials and recommend resources from the collections
These benefits are intended to enable fellows to focus fully on their research projects while making effective use of the rich historical and contemporary resources available at the library and archives.
Selection Criteria for Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026
Applications for the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 will be evaluated based on the quality, feasibility, and relevance of the proposed research project. The selection committee will consider the following factors:
Originality of the research proposal, with preference given to projects that offer new insights or perspectives.
Effective use of the collections held by the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the National Archives of Singapore.
Feasibility of completing the proposed research within the six-month fellowship period.
Applicant’s academic and research credentials, including references, academic transcripts, previous research experience, publications, and other scholarly achievements.
Demonstrated understanding of the proposed research topic, clearly reflected in the research proposal and methodology.
A strong application should present a well-defined research question, demonstrate familiarity with relevant archival and library resources, and explain how the project will contribute to scholarship in the chosen field.
Guidelines for Overseas Fellows
International candidates selected for the fellowship will need to complete several administrative and relocation-related steps before beginning their residency in Singapore. These include:
Signing the fellowship agreement.
Applying for the appropriate work pass, with assistance provided by the National Library Singapore (NLS).
Booking travel arrangements and airfare.
Securing suitable accommodation in Singapore.
Obtaining the approved work pass upon arrival.
Opening a local bank account.
Arranging mobile phone, telecommunication, and internet services.
Familiarizing themselves with transportation and travel arrangements to the National Library Singapore.
Successful candidates will receive detailed instructions and additional guidance after the fellowship award has been confirmed. The selection committee expects applicants to submit a comprehensive proposal that demonstrates both the significance of the research and a clear plan for utilizing the library and archival collections during the fellowship period.
Who is eligible to apply for the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship is open to both local and international applicants, including curators, historians, academics, independent researchers, and scholars pursuing doctoral, postdoctoral, or advanced research. Applicants should have strong research credentials, a proven record of achievement in their field, and a proposal that makes meaningful use of the collections at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the National Archives of Singapore.
What financial support is provided under the fellowship?
Fellows receive a monthly stipend of S$3,500 for six months to cover living and research-related expenses. Overseas fellows are also eligible for a one-time relocation allowance of S$1,500, reimbursement of a return economy-class airfare of up to S$1,500, and a monthly accommodation allowance of up to S$3,500 on a reimbursement basis.
What research areas are preferred for the 2026 fellowship cycle?
Priority will be given to research projects focusing on areas such as Singapore literature and theatre from the 1950s onward, social history of pre-independence Singapore and Malaya, World War II archival materials, architectural history of Singapore, the Straits Settlements, Asian children’s literature, and studies of Chinese communities using clan association archives.
How are applicants selected for the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship?
Applications are assessed based on the originality of the proposed research, relevance to the library and archival collections, feasibility of completion within six months, and the applicant’s academic qualifications, research experience, references, and scholarly achievements. The research proposal should clearly demonstrate an understanding of the chosen topic and available collections.
What facilities and resources are available to fellowship recipients?
Fellows are provided with a dedicated research workspace at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, a computer with internet access, full access to the library and archival collections, and guidance from library staff who can assist in identifying relevant research materials. Fellows are also expected to reside in Singapore during the fellowship period and focus primarily on their approved research project.
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