SEAREG Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027–2028: Fully Funded Research Opportunity in Southeast Asia for Emerging Scholars
Overview
The SEAREG Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027–2028 is a fully funded, 12-month appointment aimed at early career researchers specializing in Southeast Asian studies. Launched by the Southeast Asia Research Group with support from the Henry Luce Foundation, the program places one fellow at a leading university in Thailand, Malaysia, or Vietnam. The fellowship supports independent research, regional engagement, and professional development to help scholars build publication records, expand professional networks, and prepare for academic and non-academic careers. The inaugural cohort begins in July 2027.
Who can apply
The opportunity is open to early career researchers and recent doctoral graduates specializing in Southeast Asian studies, including disciplines such as political science, international development, public policy, sociology, anthropology, economics, history, and related fields. Applicants must actively engage with their preferred host institution prior to applying.
What you get
The selected scholar receives a competitive postdoctoral salary, research-related expense funding, travel support to attend and present at the SEAREG annual Southeast Asian workshop, and mentorship from a member of the SEAREG Executive Council. Fellows also gain access to academic networks across Southeast Asia and North America, collaboration opportunities with regional universities, and enhanced visibility in the research community.
Requirements
Applicants must obtain a letter of support from a mentor based at their intended host university before applying. This process involves discussing research alignment, expected responsibilities, teaching commitments, institutional resources, and collaboration opportunities. SEAREG can assist applicants in making initial connections with faculty and institutional representatives. The fellowship entails specific responsibilities depending on the host institution, which may include delivering public lectures or guest lectures, advancing scholarly publications, teaching a course, participating in public engagement or faculty seminars, collaborating with faculty members on academic initiatives, or joining active research teams and interdisciplinary projects.
How to apply
Applicants must submit their materials through the application portal, which opens on September 1, 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to engage with their preferred host institution and secure a letter of support from a local mentor prior to submission.
Key dates
The call for applications is released in August 2026, and the application portal opens on September 1, 2026. The application deadline is November 1, 2026. The selected fellow is announced in January 2027, followed by visa processing and logistical preparations from January to June 2027. The fellow presents at the SEAREG Southeast Asian Workshop between May and July 2027. The fellowship officially begins on July 1, 2027, and concludes on June 30, 2028.