Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 in Singapore – Fully Funded
Country: Singapore
Category: Fellowship
Duration: 6 Months
Funding: Fully Funded
Location: Lee Kong Chian Reference Library / National Library Board
Deadline: 29 May 2026.
The Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded six-month residential fellowship in Singapore. It is open to both Singaporean and international candidates, and fellows are expected to reside at the National Library Board, Singapore, specifically at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library. The source also states that there is no application fee and that the fellowship covers airfare, accommodation, a stipend, and a relocation allowance.
Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 Overview
This fellowship is aimed at researchers interested in historical materials on Singapore and Southeast Asia. The source says these materials include records dating from the 16th century as well as a contemporary collection. It also highlights the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library as a major resource for old books, maps, writings, early printed books from Singapore, European explorer accounts, historical maps, and works by prominent Singaporean writers. In addition, the National Archives of Singapore holds important records from government bodies, private individuals, and overseas sources.
Financial Benefits
✓ Monthly stipend of S$3,500 to cover living expenses, local transport, and photocopying
✓ One-time relocation payment of S$1,500 for overseas fellows
✓ One-time return airfare up to S$1,500 on a reimbursement basis
✓ Monthly accommodation allowance up to S$3,500 on a reimbursement basis
Eligibility Criteria
• Applications are open to both local and international candidates
• The fellowship welcomes curators, historians, academics, and independent researchers
• Scholars pursuing doctoral, postdoctoral, or advanced research are also encouraged to apply
• Applicants must be able to research specific topics that highlight the Library’s collections
• Applicants must possess strong scholarly and research credentials
• Applicants should have a proven track record of achievement in their field
• Applicants must show the potential for further excellence in their research
Areas of Research
The source lists several research themes for the fellowship. These include contemporary Singaporean literature or theatre since the 1950s, the development of visual, performing, or literary arts in Singapore and Malaya, Asian cultural heritage through the Asian Children’s Literature Collection, comparative studies of early Singapore and Malaya, social history of pre-independence Singapore and Malaya, and research on the Straits Settlements from 1826 to 1946. It also includes World War II research using donor materials, studies of the Chinese community through clan association records, and architectural history in Singapore with attention to lived experience and cultural memory.
Fellowship Expectations
Selected fellows are expected to live in Singapore during the fellowship period. They are also expected to spend significant time, around 75%, conducting research at the library. In addition, fellows must present their research findings and contribute to academic outputs such as papers or publications.
Application Process
To apply, candidates must complete the application form. The source says applications must be submitted by 29 May 2026 through either email or mail. Email applications should be sent to LKCRF@nlb.gov.sg. Postal applications should be addressed to The Administrator, Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship, National Library Headquarters, National Library Board, 100 Victoria Street, #14-01, Singapore 188064.
