Early career researchers specializing in Southeast Asian studies have a unique opportunity to advance their academic careers through the SEAREG Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027–2028. Launched by the Southeast Asia Research Group (SEAREG) and supported by the Henry Luce Foundation, this prestigious fellowship offers a 12-month placement at a leading university in Southeast Asia, providing scholars with valuable research, networking, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.
The fellowship is designed to strengthen the next generation of Southeast Asia scholars by supporting independent research, fostering regional engagement, and enhancing competitiveness for both academic and non-academic career pathways. The inaugural fellowship cohort will begin in July 2027, with one fellow selected to undertake a year-long appointment at one of four partner institutions located across Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
About the SEAREG Postdoctoral Fellowship
The Southeast Asia Research Group has long played a significant role in supporting scholarship focused on Southeast Asia. Through conferences, workshops, mentorship, and research funding initiatives, SEAREG has helped build a vibrant international community of scholars dedicated to understanding the region’s political, social, economic, and cultural dynamics.
The new Postdoctoral Fellowship expands this mission by creating a structured pathway for recent doctoral graduates to continue developing their research agendas while gaining professional experience within Southeast Asian academic institutions.
The fellowship combines research support, institutional engagement, mentorship, and international networking. Fellows will have the opportunity to deepen field-based research, collaborate with regional scholars, contribute to host institutions, and showcase their work at SEAREG’s annual Southeast Asian workshop.
Fellowship Benefits
The SEAREG Postdoctoral Fellowship offers a comprehensive package of professional and academic support, including:
- A competitive postdoctoral salary.
- Funding to support research-related expenses.
- Mentorship from a member of the SEAREG Executive Council.
- Travel support to attend and present at SEAREG’s annual Southeast Asian workshop.
- Access to academic networks across Southeast Asia and North America.
- Opportunities to build collaborations with leading regional universities.
- Enhanced visibility within the Southeast Asian studies research community.
The fellowship is specifically structured to help emerging scholars strengthen their publication records, expand professional networks, and prepare for long-term career success.
Host Universities and Research Opportunities
The selected fellow will be hosted by one of four distinguished partner institutions in Southeast Asia.
Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
Located in Bangkok, Chulalongkorn University offers a dynamic environment for researchers interested in political science, governance, public policy, and regional studies.
The fellow will be expected to:
- Deliver a public lecture based on their research.
- Advance scholarly publications for submission to academic journals.
- Engage with faculty and students through activities determined in consultation with the university.
Mahidol University, Thailand
Based in Nakhon Pathom, Mahidol University’s Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities provides a strong interdisciplinary environment.
Expected responsibilities include:
- Teaching a course alongside research activities.
- Participating in public engagement activities.
- Collaborating with faculty members on academic initiatives.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Located in George Town, Penang, USM offers opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement and regional collaboration.
Fellows may:
- Present research findings through faculty seminars.
- Deliver guest lectures.
- Explore collaborative publications with faculty members.
- Potentially affiliate with Research and Education for Peace USM (REPUSM).
VinUniversity, Vietnam
Located in Hanoi, VinUniversity offers a research-focused environment with opportunities to engage with the Smart Green Transformation Center.
Fellows may:
- Join active research teams.
- Participate in interdisciplinary projects.
- Develop research collaborations aligned with their expertise and interests.
Application Requirements
Prospective applicants must actively engage with their preferred host institution before submitting an application.
A key requirement is obtaining a letter of support from a mentor based at the intended host university. This demonstrates institutional commitment and helps establish a strong foundation for the fellowship experience.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss:
- Research alignment.
- Expected responsibilities.
- Teaching commitments.
- Institutional resources.
- Collaboration opportunities.
SEAREG can assist applicants in making initial connections with faculty and institutional representatives.
Fellowship Timeline
Applicants should carefully note the programme timeline:
- August 2026: Call for applications released.
- September 1, 2026: Application portal opens.
- November 1, 2026: Application deadline.
- January 2027: Announcement of selected fellow.
- January–June 2027: Visa processing and logistical preparations.
- May–July 2027: Presentation at SEAREG Southeast Asian Workshop.
- July 1, 2027: Fellowship begins.
- June 30, 2028: Fellowship concludes.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
The SEAREG Postdoctoral Fellowship offers more than a traditional postdoctoral appointment. It provides scholars with direct engagement in Southeast Asia, access to influential academic networks, and opportunities to conduct meaningful field-based research within the region itself.
The combination of mentorship, institutional support, research funding, workshop participation, and regional immersion makes this fellowship particularly attractive for scholars seeking to establish themselves as experts in Southeast Asian studies.
For emerging researchers interested in politics, international development, public policy, sociology, anthropology, economics, history, and related disciplines connected to Southeast Asia, this fellowship represents an exceptional platform for career advancement.
With generous support from the Henry Luce Foundation and partnerships with leading Southeast Asian universities, the programme is positioned to become one of the region’s most competitive and impactful postdoctoral opportunities.
Key Details at a Glance
- Fellowship: SEAREG Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027–2028
- Duration: 12 months
- Start Date: July 1, 2027
- Host Region: Southeast Asia
- Partner Institutions: Chulalongkorn University, Mahidol University, Universiti Sains Malaysia, VinUniversity
- Benefits: Salary, research funding, mentorship, travel support, networking opportunities
- Funding Partner: Henry Luce Foundation
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2026
- Fellowship End Date: June 30, 2028
Researchers with a strong commitment to Southeast Asian studies are encouraged to begin engaging with prospective host institutions early and prepare competitive applications before the November deadline.
