Applications are now open for the National Library Board Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship 2026 in Singapore.
This fully funded fellowship lasts for six months. It is open to both local and international applicants. Selected fellows will stay in Singapore and carry out research at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library.
The program welcomes historians, curators, academics, and independent researchers. Doctoral and postdoctoral researchers can also apply.
There is no application fee.
Successful applicants will receive airfare, housing support, a monthly stipend, and relocation support.
Fellowship Details
📍 Host Country: Singapore
📍 Location: Lee Kong Chian Reference Library / National Library Board
📍 Duration: 6 Months
📍 Funding Type: Fully Funded
📍 Deadline: 29 May 2026
Financial Benefits
The fellowship covers:
💰 Monthly stipend of S$3,500 for living costs, local travel, and photocopying
✈️ Return airfare up to S$1,500 on a reimbursement basis
🏠 Accommodation allowance up to S$3,500 per month on a reimbursement basis
📦 One-time relocation support of S$1,500 for overseas fellows
About the Fellowship
The fellowship supports research related to Singapore and Southeast Asia.
Researchers will have access to rare historical collections, maps, books, and archives. Some materials date back to the 16th century.
The Lee Kong Chian Reference Library holds many important records about Singapore and nearby regions. These include:
📚 Early books printed in Singapore
🗺️ Historical maps and travel records
✍️ Writings from well-known Singaporean authors
The National Archives of Singapore also keeps major records from government offices, private groups, and foreign sources.
Research Areas
Arts and Literature
🎭 Research on Singaporean theatre and literature since the 1950s
🎨 Study of visual, literary, and performing arts in Singapore and Malaya
📖 Research using the Asian Children’s Literature Collection
Historical Studies
📜 Comparative studies of early Singapore and Malaya
🏛️ Social history of pre-independence Singapore and Malaya
🌏 Research on the Straits Settlements from 1826 to 1946
Special Collections and Archives
⚔️ World War II research using special donor collections
🏮 Studies on Chinese community records and clan associations
Architecture and Culture
🏙️ Research on Singapore’s architectural history and cultural memory
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
🌍 Open to both local and international candidates
📚 Must focus on topics linked to the library’s collections
👨🏫 Open to historians, curators, scholars, academics, and independent researchers
🎓 Doctoral and postdoctoral researchers are encouraged to apply
🏆 Applicants must show strong research achievements and academic ability
What Fellows Must Do
Selected fellows are expected to:
📍 Live in Singapore during the fellowship
📖 Spend most of their time researching at the library
🎤 Present their research findings
📝 Produce papers, reports, or other academic work
Tips to Improve Your Application
✅ Submit a clear research proposal
✅ Choose a topic linked to Singapore or Southeast Asia
✅ Include past research work or publications
✅ Explain how you will use the library’s special collections
How to Apply
To apply for the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship:
📄 Complete the application form
📧 Submit your application by email to: LKCRF@nlb.gov.sg
📮 Or send it by mail to:
The Administrator
Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship
National Library Headquarters
National Library Board
100 Victoria Street, #14-01
Singapore 188064
Apply Now
Interested applicants should submit their applications before 29 May 2026.
