The STIAS Individual Fellowship Program 2027 for Independent Researchers is now open for applications until 31 October 2025. This prestigious fellowship provides an unparalleled “creative space for the mind” for scholars to pursue independent, interdisciplinary research with global impact while in residence at STIAS in South Africa.
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Background & Fellowship Description
The STIAS Fellowship Program offers scholars and independent researchers the opportunity to engage in advanced, original research in a multidisciplinary environment. Based in South Africa, the institute fosters intellectual creativity and collaboration, welcoming applicants from any country, discipline, or academic affiliation. Fellows benefit from interaction with leading thinkers, access to high-level resources, and an inspiring scholarly community.
The fellowship encourages innovative, original, and interdisciplinary research that contributes unique perspectives and promotes cross-pollination of ideas among participants.
Fellowship Structure & Duration STIAS Individual Fellowship Program 2027 for Independent Researchers
- Fellowships are offered on a semester basis:
- First semester 2027: mid-January to mid-June 2027
- STIAS may consider shorter (minimum 6 weeks) or longer fellowships (up to two semesters) in exceptional cases.
- Fellows are expected to reside at STIAS and participate in seminars, discussions, and daily lunches for collaborative engagement.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to all disciplines and nationalities.
- Fellows may be independent researchers, artists-in-residence, or young scholars with at least one postdoctoral fellowship (for early-to-mid career applicants).
- Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, originality, and the potential for high-impact research.
- Preference is given to first-time applicants within a five-year cycle.
Required Application Documents
- Covering letter explaining motivation for applying.
- Curriculum Vitae and list of publications.
- One or two recent articles reflecting the applicant’s research.
- Project title, description (2–4 pages), and expected outcomes.
- Brief 200-word summary for a general audience.
- Preferred and alternative fellowship dates.
Applications should be submitted via email in PDF format to: gudrun@sun.ac.za or by mail to:
Ms Gudrun Schirge, STIAS Senior Programme Administrator
Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa
Selection Process
- Applications are assessed on academic excellence, originality, interdisciplinarity, relevance, and feasibility.
- The STIAS Fellowship and Research Programme Committee selects candidates, taking into account cohort composition for a diverse and multidisciplinary environment.
- Applicants will be notified of the selection results approximately three months prior to the semester start.
Benefits of the Fellowship
- Access to a unique, intellectually stimulating environment.
- Opportunities to collaborate with leading global and African scholars.
- Participation in STIAS seminars and research activities.
- Full residency support including workspace and institutional facilities.
Conclusion
The STIAS Individual Fellowship Program 2027 is an exceptional opportunity for independent researchers to advance their scholarship in a globally recognized, intellectually diverse environment. If you are passionate about research and interdisciplinary collaboration, this fellowship can provide the platform to take your work to the next level.
📌 Apply before 31 October 2025 via gudrun@sun.ac.za.
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