Apply Now! Funded African Studies Centre Leiden (ASCL) Visiting Fellowship Programme 2025
Visiting Fellowship Programme at the ASCL
The African Studies Centre Leiden (ASCL) offers an engaging and dynamic Visiting Fellowship Programme that provides researchers with the opportunity to advance their academic careers while contributing to the ASCL’s vibrant research environment. The programme is designed to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and scholarly development.
Fellows will have access to the ASCL’s outstanding library resources, engage in academic seminars, and network with fellow researchers from around the world.
This fellowship offers an invaluable opportunity to immerse oneself in an environment that is dedicated to advancing African studies and research.
Fellowship Overview
The ASCL’s Visiting Fellowship Programme is open to qualified academics and researchers who are dedicated to furthering their research on Africa. The programme provides fellows with a platform to produce high-quality research while benefiting from the ASCL’s rich academic resources. The fellowship is an ideal setting for those wishing to focus on their research, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and contribute to the ASCL’s academic community.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Visiting Research Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- PhD Requirement: Applicants must hold a PhD at the time of application, which is essential for ensuring a high level of expertise and experience within the fellowship programme.
- Research Focus on Africa: The applicant’s previous research—whether as part of their doctoral studies or in subsequent projects—must have focused on Africa. This ensures that the fellow’s work aligns with the ASCL’s commitment to advancing knowledge about the African continent.
- Academic Career Commitment: Applicants must be actively pursuing an academic or research career, contributing to the development of knowledge within their field of expertise.
- Publications: The applicant must have published books, book chapters, or journal articles in the last few years that meet international academic standards. These publications should demonstrate the applicant’s scholarly contribution and commitment to advancing research.
- Visa and Travel Compliance: The applicant must be prepared to return to their country of citizenship or current residence upon completion of the fellowship, in accordance with international visa regulations.
The ASCL gives preference to applicants who are based in Africa. This refers to individuals who have lived in any of the African Union member states for at least two out of the last four years. Priority will also be given to applications that present a well-structured and feasible research proposal, outlining the intended work and expected outcomes of the fellowship.
Application Process
The Visiting Fellowship Programme is currently open for applications. Interested individuals can access the full call for applications and download the application form in both English and French. The deadline for submission is 7 May. Applications must be submitted using the forms provided by the ASCL.
For those interested in receiving updates about future calls for the Visiting Fellowship Programme, there is an option to subscribe to the mailing list. This allows prospective applicants to stay informed about upcoming opportunities and application deadlines.
Reviewing Procedure
Applicants must indicate the Collaborative Research Group (CRG) they wish to work with at the ASCL, and their research topic must align with the research focus of that CRG. Each CRG is tasked with nominating its preferred candidate from the pool of applicants.
The Visiting Fellowship Committee will then review the final selections to ensure that the fellowship programme maintains balance in terms of gender and geographical diversity among the selected fellows. This process is designed to safeguard the objectives of the fellowship and ensure a well-rounded and representative group of scholars.
Fellowship Benefits
Fellows selected for the programme will receive a variety of practical and academic benefits, including:
- Return Ticket (Economy Class): The fellowship covers the cost of a return ticket to Leiden, ensuring that international fellows can participate without the burden of travel expenses.
- Living Costs: Fellows are provided with a fixed stipend to cover living expenses during their stay. This ensures that fellows can focus on their research and academic activities without the need for additional financial support.
- Accommodation: Accommodation is provided at a designated residence in Leiden. Fellows will be assigned a single bed/sitting room with shared access to kitchen and bathroom facilities. The living arrangements are shared with a maximum of two other fellows. If a fellow wishes to bring a partner or child, they will need to arrange their own alternative accommodation, as the ASCL cannot assist in this regard.
- Medical and Liability Insurance: Fellows will be provided with medical and liability insurance. However, it’s important to note that this insurance does not cover pre-existing medical conditions.
- Access to Office and Library Facilities: Fellows will have access to shared office spaces and the extensive library resources of the ASCL, which are key assets for advancing their research.
Self-Financed Visitors
In addition to the Visiting Fellowship Programme, the ASCL also welcomes self-financed visitors who wish to carry out research at the Centre. Self-financed visitors can access the library facilities and share a desk with other visitors, subject to availability.
However, they are expected to arrange their own accommodation, travel, and visa requirements. Those interested in visiting as self-financed researchers are encouraged to send their research proposal, CV, and proof of financial means to the ASCL at [email protected]. The application should also include the proposed dates of the visit.
Call to Action
The Visiting Fellowship Programme at the African Studies Centre Leiden provides a unique opportunity for researchers focused on Africa to further their academic careers while contributing to the global exchange of knowledge.
Those interested in applying are encouraged to review the application guidelines and submit their applications by the 7 May deadline. This fellowship offers a platform for scholars to make significant contributions to African studies and global academic discourse.
