Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2025 in Singapore – Fully Funded Research Program
The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2025 presents an exceptional opportunity for researchers and scholars interested in Southeast Asian studies. Funded by the National Library Board (NLB) Singapore, this prestigious fellowship invites both local and international candidates to undertake six months of fully supported research at the renowned Lee Kong Chian Reference Library.
With access to one of the most significant historical collections in the region, fellows can delve deep into the cultural, literary, and historical heritage of Singapore and its neighboring countries.
Fellowship Overview
- Host Location: Singapore
- Institution: Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, National Library Board
- Duration: 6 Months (Residential Program)
- Funding Status: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 31 May 2025
What the Fellowship Offers
Selected participants will benefit from comprehensive financial support, ensuring they can focus solely on their research goals:
- Return airfare (economy class)
- Monthly living stipend: SGD 3,500
- Housing allowance: SGD 3,500 per month
- One-time relocation grant: SGD 1,500
These benefits cover all key expenses, including travel, accommodation, and daily living needs during the residency.
About the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library
This library holds an extensive and unique archive of materials related to Singapore and Southeast Asia, including:
- Early published books and manuscripts from the region
- Historical documents, photographs, and rare maps
- Writings by prominent authors and intellectuals from Singapore
- Colonial records and cultural literature
Fellows also receive access to the National Archives of Singapore, enabling them to draw from government files, oral histories, and private collections.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to individuals with a solid academic or professional background in research. Applicants may include:
- Scholars from universities and research institutions
- Independent researchers and historians
- Curators, writers, and subject specialists
- PhD holders and postdoctoral fellows
- Applicants with a strong research proposal related to Singapore or Southeast Asia
Candidates should propose a project that highlights or utilizes the library’s collections and contributes to academic or public understanding of the region.
Required Documents
To apply, prepare the following:
- Completed application form
- Updated CV or resume
- Research proposal (clearly stating objectives and methodology)
- Academic references (if applicable)
- Samples of previous work (optional but recommended)
How to Apply
Submit your application by 31 May 2025 through one of the following methods:
By Email:
By Post:
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The Administrator
Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship
National Library Headquarters
National Library Board
100 Victoria Street, #14-01
Singapore 188064
You can download the official application form from the NLB website (search for “Lee Kong Chian Fellowship” in the site’s search bar).
Why You Should Apply
- Work on your research in one of Asia’s top libraries
- Get full financial support to focus solely on your project
- Gain access to rare historical and cultural materials
- Build your research portfolio with a global fellowship
- Contribute new knowledge about Southeast Asia and Singapore
Key Dates
- Application Submission Deadline: 31 May 2025
- Fellowship Start Date: To be scheduled in consultation with selected fellows