Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Program - ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute
The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme honours Professor Wang Gungwu, former Chairman of the Board of Trustees at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute (ISEAS) for his distinguished tenure of 17 years at the Institute.
The programme aims to build the next generation of scholars and policy makers exploring the nexus of big-power relations and its impact on Southeast Asia through policy relevant research on international politics and security, regional economics and digital technology, in the following priority areas of research:
1. Developments in US-China relations and their impact on Southeast Asia
2. Asia Pacific security issues (e.g. South China Sea, China-ASEAN relations)
3. Progress and prospects of global/regional economic cooperation initiatives (e.g. Belt and Road Initiative and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership)
4. Rise of China and its impact on Southeast Asian communities
5. Use of digital media and technology by countries to further their interests and influence perceptions in Southeast Asian countries
Download the WGW VFP Information Brochure here
Fellowships may be for a minimum of two (2) months and up to a period of six (6) months, subject to approval by ISEAS. Successful applicants are expected to be in residence at ISEAS for the duration of their fellowship.
Expected Outputs and Publication Opportunities
Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows (WGWVF) are required to contribute to ISEAS Perspective and ISEAS Fulcrumpublications in the areas of their research and speak at an in-house seminar on their research findings during their fellowship at ISEAS. As WGWVF, researchers will be part of a network of regional scholars and are welcome to contribute to ISEAS after their fellowship.
Stipend and Benefits
1. The Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme offers successful applicants a fixed monthly stipend (inclusive of a housing subsidy) for the duration of their fellowship at ISEAS and round-trip economy airfare between their home country and Singapore.
2. WGWVFs will be invited to a meeting with Professor Wang Gungwu during their fellowship, where possible.
3. Successful applicants will enjoy access to office space, computer equipment and IT services, ISEAS Library and other facilities at ISEAS, where appropriate.
4. Proposals for partial/full cost-sharing will also be considered.
Eligibility
Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme is intended for post-doctoral researchers and mid-career policy makers.
We welcome mid-career policy makers who may not have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree, provided that their CV/Resume can ascertain an appropriate level of professional experience and research interest.
Application Requirements
Application period for the 2026 intake: 28 April – 30 July 2025
Applicants must submit:
Cover Letter
CV/Resume
Research Statement (3 pages, double-spaced) addressing:
Area of research, research methodology, timeline and expected outputs
Duration of fellowship in residence at ISEAS
Two Letters of Reference
Proposal for partial/full cost-sharing (if applicable)
Apply Now
1. All applications must be received no later than Wednesday 30 July 2025.
2. Submit the application via email to: development@iseas.edu.sg with subject:
Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2026 – [First Name and Last Name]
3. The two referees should provide the Letters of Reference via email to: development@iseas.edu.sgwith subject:
Application for ISEAS Wang Gungwu Visiting Fellows Programme 2026 – [Reference Letter for First Name and Last Name]
Download the WGW VFP Recruitment 2026 Brochure here
For enquiries on this programme, please contact:
Mr. Malcolm Yiong
Assistant Director, Development
ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute
30 Heng Mui Keng Terrace
Singapore 119614
development@iseas.edu.sg