The Gulbenkian Institute for Advanced Study (GIAS) has officially opened applications for its 2027/28 Fellowship Programme, inviting outstanding scholars from around the world to apply for residential fellowships in Lisbon, Portugal.
Applications are open until 15 October 2026, offering successful candidates the opportunity to undertake three- to eight-month research residencies within an interdisciplinary academic environment designed to foster collaboration, intellectual exchange, and innovative scholarship.
The announcement comes as the institute prepares to welcome its inaugural fellowship cohort in September, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its mission to support world-class research and academic excellence.
A Global Fellowship for Outstanding Researchers
The 2027/28 GIAS Fellowship Programme seeks to bring together an international community of exceptional researchers working across disciplines. Fellows will join a vibrant intellectual community where they can pursue independent research while engaging with scholars from diverse academic backgrounds.
The institute aims to create an environment that encourages:
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Innovative research
- Intellectual exchange
- International academic partnerships
- Scholarly dialogue across disciplines
By providing dedicated time and space for research, the programme enables fellows to focus on advancing significant academic projects while contributing to a collaborative research community.
Fellowship Residencies in Lisbon
Successful applicants will be invited to undertake residential fellowships lasting between three and eight months at the Gulbenkian Institute for Advanced Study in Lisbon.
The programme is designed to provide scholars with:
- Dedicated time for research
- Access to an international scholarly community
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
- A stimulating academic environment
- Participation in seminars, discussions, and institute activities
The residency model encourages meaningful engagement among fellows, creating opportunities for knowledge sharing and the development of new research partnerships.
Who Can Apply?
The institute is seeking applications from highly accomplished researchers interested in spending a research residency in Lisbon during the 2027/28 academic year.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the official eligibility requirements before submitting their applications. The application guidance includes information on:
- Eligibility criteria
- Required application documents
- Fellowship conditions
- Selection process
- Important deadlines
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Applications must be submitted through the institute’s online application system.
Application Deadline
Researchers interested in joining the second fellowship cohort should note the following key date:
- Application deadline: 15 October 2026
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials well in advance of the deadline to ensure timely submission.
Supporting World-Class Scholarship
The Gulbenkian Institute for Advanced Study was established to foster excellence in research by creating opportunities for scholars to pursue ambitious research projects in a collaborative and intellectually rich environment.
The fellowship programme reflects the institute’s commitment to advancing academic knowledge through international collaboration and interdisciplinary dialogue. By bringing together researchers from different fields and regions, GIAS seeks to generate new ideas, strengthen global research networks, and contribute to addressing complex societal challenges through scholarship.
As preparations continue for the arrival of its inaugural cohort, the opening of applications for the 2027/28 fellowship cycle marks another important milestone in the institute’s efforts to build a globally connected research community centered in Lisbon.
