Are you a historian, curator, academic, or doctoral researcher passionate about Southeast Asian studies? The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2025 is your gateway to one of Asia’s most prestigious and fully funded research opportunities. Offered by Singapore’s National Library Board (NLB), this fellowship welcomes applications from researchers worldwide — including international candidates.
About the Fellowship
The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship is a six-month residential fellowship where fellows undertake research using the collections of the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the National Archives of Singapore — materials dating from the 16th century covering Singapore and Southeast Asia.
Financial Benefits (Fully Funded)
This fellowship covers all major expenses. Fellows receive a monthly stipend of S$3,500, a one-time relocation package of S$1,500, and a return airfare reimbursement of up to S$1,500. International fellows also receive a monthly accommodation allowance — making this a truly fully funded opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to curators, historians, academics, independent researchers, and doctoral or postdoctoral candidates with a strong track record.
- Open to both local and international applicants from all nationalities.
- Research must be original and utilize the library or archives’ collections.
- Research must be feasibly completable within six months.
Required Documents
- Completed application form
- Detailed research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Two letters of recommendation and copies of academic transcripts.
How to Apply
Submit your application by 30 May 2025
Don’t miss this rare, fully funded opportunity — apply before the deadline!

Nabeel Akhter is an international education advocate and scholarship mentor dedicated to helping students access global academic opportunities. He studied in the United States at the University of Massachusetts Amherst through the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Student Leaders program funded by the U.S. Department of State.
Inspired by this journey, Nabeel now actively mentors and guides students in finding and applying for scholarships, exchange programs, and global learning opportunities, helping them navigate pathways to study and grow internationally.