Fully Funded Research in Amsterdam: Apply for the NIAS Individual Fellowship 2027–2028 – An Exciting Opportunity
Are you a scholar in the humanities or social sciences looking for uninterrupted time to focus on your research? The NIAS Individual Fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity to spend five or ten months immersed in an interdisciplinary academic community at the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS) in Amsterdam.
For the 2027–2028 academic year, applications are open from 15 January 2026 to 16 March 2026 (12:00 noon CET). This prestigious fellowship provides scholars with the time, space, and intellectual environment needed to advance innovative research projects.
About the NIAS Individual Fellowship
The NIAS Individual Fellowship is designed for researchers who want to dedicate focused time to a self-designed project in the humanities or social sciences. Each year, NIAS brings together approximately 50 fellows from around the world, including individual scholars, writers, journalists, and artists.
The institute fosters a vibrant, multidisciplinary environment where fellows engage in dialogue across disciplines, exchange ideas, and refine their research in a supportive academic setting. The fellowship lasts either five or ten months, giving scholars the rare opportunity to step away from daily teaching, administrative duties, and other professional responsibilities.
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What the Fellowship Offers
A NIAS Fellowship is more than just a research grant. It is a residential academic experience that supports deep intellectual engagement and collaboration. Fellows receive:
- Five or ten months to work on an independent research project
- A private office space with internet and IT support
- Access to research facilities and library services
- Participation in weekly seminars and academic discussions
- Opportunities to organize workshops and public events
- A strong interdisciplinary scholarly community
- Communal lunches on working days to encourage interaction
- The possibility to apply for a stipend or a Dutch University Grant
- Access to subsidized accommodation in Amsterdam or commuting reimbursement
Fellows are expected to be present at the institute at least four days per week during their stay, ensuring active participation in the academic community.
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Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to scholars from the Netherlands and around the world. Applicants must have at least three years of academic experience after obtaining their PhD. Independent scholars are welcome to apply, and a permanent academic position is not required.
Applicants must submit a research proposal that falls within the humanities and/or social sciences. Since English is the working language at NIAS, strong proficiency in English is essential.
NIAS is committed to building a diverse and balanced cohort of fellows, representing different disciplines, career stages, genders, and geographic backgrounds. Selection is primarily based on the quality, originality, and feasibility of the proposed research project.
Application Cap and Selection Process
The fellowship is awarded through a competitive open call. For the 2027–2028 academic year, a maximum of 216 eligible applications will be assessed.
To ensure fair representation, applications are grouped into three categories:
- Applicants affiliated with Dutch institutions or based in the Netherlands
- Applicants affiliated with institutions in other EU and selected Global North countries
- Applicants affiliated with countries outside the above categories
Each category is capped at 72 applications. Once a sub-cap is reached, no further applications will be accepted in that category.
The selection process emphasizes the strength of the project proposal. While the applicant’s CV and publication record are considered, the primary focus is on the originality, clarity, and scholarly contribution of the proposed research.
Application Requirements
Applicants must complete the online application form and submit the following documents:
- A research proposal of up to 1,500 words
- A detailed and updated CV
- A publication list
- The names and contact details of three independent international experts who can review the proposal
All application materials must be submitted in English. Only complete applications that meet the formal requirements will be considered.
Why You Should Apply
The NIAS Individual Fellowship provides a rare opportunity to dedicate sustained time to research in an intellectually stimulating environment. It allows scholars to test new ideas, deepen their analysis, and engage in meaningful academic exchange beyond their home institutions.
Amsterdam offers a rich cultural and academic landscape, further enhancing the fellowship experience. Being part of the NIAS community means joining a network of leading thinkers from diverse disciplines and regions.
Whether you are finalizing a major book manuscript, launching a new research direction, or exploring an interdisciplinary project, the NIAS Fellowship offers the space and support to elevate your work.
Key Dates
- Call Opens: 15 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 16 March 2026 (12:00 noon CET)
- Fellowship Duration: 5 or 10 months
- Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
If you are ready to focus deeply on your research within a dynamic international community, the NIAS Individual Fellowship 2027–2028 could be your next transformative academic opportunity.
