Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2027 Fully Funded Fellowship in Singapore for Researchers & Policy Makers

Applications are now open for the prestigious Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme (WGW VFP) 2027 at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore. This fully funded fellowship is designed for post-doctoral researchers and mid-career policy makers who want to conduct policy-relevant research on Southeast Asia's most pressing geopolitical, economic, and digital challenges.

Named in honour of Professor Wang Gungwu – former Chairman of the Board of Trustees at ISEAS for 17 distinguished years – the programme seeks to build the next generation of scholars and policy experts examining big-power relations and their impact on Southeast Asia.

🏛️ About ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute

ISEAS is a leading autonomous research institute in Singapore dedicated to studying socio-political, economic, and security trends in Southeast Asia and its broader strategic environment. Fellows will be based at ISEAS in Singapore, gaining access to world-class facilities, library resources, and a vibrant network of regional experts.

📅 Fellowship Duration & Residency

• Minimum: 2 months
• Maximum: 6 months
• Location: In residence at ISEAS, Singapore (required)

✅ Successful applicants must be physically present at ISEAS for the entire fellowship period.

🔍 Priority Research Areas

Applicants are encouraged to submit research proposals aligned with one or more of the following themes:

1. Developments in US-China relations and their impact on Southeast Asia
2. Asia-Pacific security issues (e.g., South China Sea, China-ASEAN relations)
3. Progress and prospects of global/regional economic cooperation initiatives (e.g., Belt and Road Initiative, RCEP)
4. Rise of China and its impact on Southeast Asian communities
5. Use of digital media and technology by countries to further their interests and influence perceptions in Southeast Asia

The programme strongly favours research that combines academic rigor with policy relevance.

💰 Fellowship Benefits (Fully Funded)

Successful fellows receive:

• ✅ Fixed monthly stipend (includes housing subsidy)
• ✅ Round-trip economy airfare between home country and Singapore
• ✅ Office space, computer equipment, and IT services at ISEAS
• ✅ Access to ISEAS Library and other institute facilities
• ✅ Opportunity to meet Professor Wang Gungwu (where possible)
• ✅ Networking opportunities with regional scholars and policy experts

📝 Expected Outputs & Publication Opportunities

Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows are required to:

• Contribute to ISEAS Perspective (policy briefs)
• Contribute to ISEAS Fulcrum (online commentary)
• Present their research findings at an in-house seminar during the fellowship

After the fellowship, researchers are welcome to continue contributing to ISEAS and remain part of the network.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is intended for:

• Post-doctoral researchers (PhD holders or equivalent)
• Mid-career policy makers who may not have a PhD, provided their CV demonstrates:
• Substantial professional experience
• Strong research interest relevant to the programme themes

🌍 Open to applicants from any country (no nationality restriction mentioned in official document)

📂 How to Apply

Step 1 – Prepare your application

You will need:

• Completed application form (via FormSG link)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
• Research proposal (aligned with priority areas)
• Supporting academic/professional documents
• Two referees (see below)

Step 2 – Submit online

Submit your application via the official FormSG link provided by ISEAS.

Step 3 – Referees send letters directly

Your two referees must email their Letters of Recommendation directly to:

📧 developmentiseas.edu.sg

with the subject line:

Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2027 - [Reference Letter for First Name and Last Name]

⚠️ Incomplete applications or those missing referee letters will not be considered.

⏳ Application Deadline

🗓️ Tuesday, 4 August 2026

All applications must be received by this date.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

📞 Enquiries

Mr Malcolm Yiong

Assistant Director, Development

ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute

30 Heng Mui Keng Terrace, Singapore 119614

📧 developmentiseas.edu.sg

🌟 Why Apply for the Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellowship?

• Conduct impactful, policy-driven research in one of Asia's top research institutes
• Gain international exposure in Singapore – a global hub for geopolitics and policy
• Build lasting networks with scholars and decision-makers focused on Southeast Asia
• Receive a fully funded package including stipend, housing subsidy, and airfare
• Honour the legacy of Professor Wang Gungwu by contributing to regional knowledge

For researchers and policy professionals working on US-China rivalry, ASEAN security, digital influence, or regional economic cooperation – this is an exceptional opportunity.

🔗 VISIT THE OFFICIAL ISEAS WEBSITE TO APPLY

📥 Download the official WGW VFP Information Brochure from the ISEAS website before applying.

Disclaimer: Examoo is not the scholarship offering organization. For all enquiries, please contact ISEAS directly. Do not send applications to Examoo. Thank you for your understanding.