If you are a postdoctoral researcher or a policy professional interested in Southeast Asian affairs, the Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme offers a rare opportunity to spend time in Singapore researching, writing, and engaging with one of the region’s most respected think tanks. This fellowship, hosted by ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, is named after Professor Wang Gungwu, who served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at ISEAS for seventeen years. Below is everything you need to know about eligibility, benefits, research priorities, and how to apply before the deadline. For more BS, MS,Phd, Postdoc Positions visit here.
What Is the Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme:
The programme was created to support the next generation of scholars and policy thinkers who study how major power relations shape Southeast Asia. Fellows are expected to conduct policy relevant research that speaks to real world developments in international politics, regional economics, security, and digital technology across the region.
Unlike a purely academic grant, this fellowship blends research with public engagement. Fellows do not simply write in isolation; they contribute directly to ISEAS publications and speak about their findings during in house seminars.
Priority Research Areas for 2027:
ISEAS is particularly interested in applicants whose research fits within one of the following themes:
- Developments in United States China relations and their impact on Southeast Asia
- Asia Pacific security issues, including the South China Sea and China ASEAN relations
- Progress and prospects of regional economic cooperation, such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership
- The rise of China and its impact on Southeast Asian communities
- The use of digital media and technology by countries to shape influence and public perception across Southeast Asia
If your current research or professional work touches on any of these themes, you are a strong candidate for this fellowship.
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Fellowship Duration:
Successful applicants are expected to reside at ISEAS in Singapore for the full length of their fellowship. The programme offers two options:
- A minimum residency of two months
- A maximum residency of six months, subject to ISEAS approval
This flexible window allows both short focused research visits and longer, more immersive fellowship periods, depending on the scope of your project.
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Stipend and Benefits:
The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme is fully funded. Selected fellows receive:
- A fixed monthly stipend that includes a housing subsidy
- Round trip economy airfare between the fellow’s home country and Singapore
- Office space, computer equipment, and IT services at ISEAS
- Full access to the ISEAS Library and other institute facilities
- A meeting opportunity with Professor Wang Gungwu himself, where possible
Few visiting fellowships offer this level of direct engagement with the programme’s namesake, making this a genuinely unique professional experience.
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Publication and Seminar Requirements:
This is not a passive research grant. Fellows are expected to actively contribute to two flagship ISEAS platforms:
ISEAS Perspective
A peer reviewed publication series where fellows are expected to submit research based commentary tied to their fellowship theme.
ISEAS Fulcrum
An online platform for timely analysis on Southeast Asian affairs, where fellows are also expected to contribute writing.
In addition, every Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellow presents their research findings at an in house seminar during their time at ISEAS. After the fellowship ends, alumni remain part of a wider regional network of scholars and are welcome to continue contributing to ISEAS publications.
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Who Can Apply:
This fellowship is designed for two types of applicants:
- Postdoctoral researchers with a completed Ph.D. in a relevant field
- Mid career policy makers who may not hold a Ph.D. but have a professional CV or resume that demonstrates a strong track record in policy work and research interest
This dual eligibility path makes the programme accessible to both academics and practitioners working directly in government, international organizations, or policy institutions.
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How to Apply for the 2027 Programme:
Follow these steps carefully to complete your application before the deadline.
- Prepare your application along with all required supporting documents
- Submit your application through the official FormSG portal linked below
- Arrange for two referees to send their Letters of Recommendation directly to ISEAS by email
Application deadline: Friday, 28 August 2026
Apply here: ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2027 Application Form
Referee letters should be emailed to: development@iseas.edu.sg with the subject line: Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2027, followed by the Reference Letter and the applicant’s first and last name.
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Helpful Resources:
- Download the Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme Information Brochure
- Download the Recruitment 2027 Brochure (updated 6 July 2026)
- Read an interview with Dr. Du Yue, WGW Visiting Fellow 2024
- Read an interview with Dr. Deasy Pane, WGW Visiting Fellow 2025
Contact for Enquiries
Mr Malcolm Yiong
Assistant Director, Development
ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute
30 Heng Mui Keng Terrace, Singapore 119614
Email: development@iseas.edu.sg
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme?
It is a fully funded visiting fellowship at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, named after Professor Wang Gungwu. It supports researchers and policy makers studying big power relations and their impact on Southeast Asia.
Who is eligible for the Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme?
Postdoctoral researchers with a Ph.D. in a relevant field, as well as mid career policy makers without a Ph.D. who have strong professional experience and research interest, are eligible to apply.
How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship runs for a minimum of two months and a maximum of six months, subject to approval by ISEAS.
What financial support does the fellowship provide?
Fellows receive a fixed monthly stipend that includes a housing subsidy, plus round trip economy airfare between their home country and Singapore.
What is the application deadline for 2027?
All applications must be submitted no later than Friday, 28 August 2026.
Do fellows have to publish anything during their fellowship?
Yes. Fellows are required to contribute to ISEAS Perspective and ISEAS Fulcrum publications and present their research at an in house seminar during their residency.
How do I submit my application?
Applications and supporting documents must be submitted through the official FormSG portal, while referees send their Letters of Recommendation directly by email to ISEAS.
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