The NIAS–NIOD–KITLV Fellowship 2025 is offered by the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS), in collaboration with NIOD and the Royal Netherlands Institute of Southeast Asian and Caribbean Studies (KITLV), with a program of “Moving Objects, Mobilising Culture in the Context of (De)colonisation”. This unique opportunity is designed for researchers and heritage practitioners from formerly colonised countries to engage deeply with collections and archives housed in the Netherlands. The “Moving Objects, Mobilising Culture” fellowship aims to facilitate access for scholars and practitioners to research objects in cultural, historical, ancestral, or artistic. Fellows are encouraged to explore these collections, delve into related archives, and establish connections with corresponding collections in their countries of origin or elsewhere. This initiative seeks to foster innovative research on the trajectories and social histories of these objects, extending beyond traditional narratives and institutional frameworks.

NIAS, located in Amsterdam, is a prestigious institute dedicated to fostering advanced research in the humanities and social sciences. The institute is renowned for providing a collaborative environment that brings together scholars from around the world to engage in interdisciplinary research.

Fellowship Details

• Name: NIAS–NIOD–KITLV Fellowship: Moving Objects, Mobilising Culture in the Context of (De) Colonisation
• Offered by: Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS) in collaboration with NIOD and KITLV
• Programs Available: Research fellowship conducted in English
• Duration: Five months
• Application Deadlines: 17 March 2025, 12.00h (noon) CET
• Number of Fellowships: Two in the academic year 2025-2026(Sep 2025 – Jan 2026)
• Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Funding: Fully funded

Eligibility Criteria

Please read the following criteria before applying for the NIAS NIOD KITLV Fellowship:

• Professional Background: Researchers, heritage practitioners, historians, archaeologists, social scientists, artists, journalists, and cultural activists
• Country of Origin: Individuals based in formerly colonised countries
• Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.

Benefits of the Fellowship

NIAS NIOD KITLV Fellowship covers many benefits that you need to successfully complete a program including:

• Stipend: A monthly stipend of  €3500 is provided to cover living expenses during the fellowship period.
• Travel Expenses: Compensation for travel costs within the Netherlands, up to a maximum of €500.
• Accommodation: Assistance in finding suitable accommodation in Amsterdam.
• Research Facilities: Access to extensive archives, libraries, and collections relevant to the research focus.
• Collaborative Environment: Opportunity to engage with a diverse community of scholars and practitioners.

Application Process

To apply for the NIAS fellowship, please prepare the following documents:

• Research Proposal: A detailed plan outlining the research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Comprehensive overview of academic and professional experience.
• Letters of Recommendation: You’ll probably need at least two letters from academic or professional references.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Documentation demonstrating the ability to conduct research in English.

How to Apply

• Application Form: Complete the online application form available on the NIAS website.
• Submission: Upload all required documents through the application portal.
• Deadline: Ensure that you don’t forget to submit your application before the specified deadline.

Things to Remember

• Selection Criteria: The committee will evaluate applications based on the quality and relevance of the research proposal, the applicant’s background, and the potential impact of the research.
• Notification: The selection team will notify successful candidates via email.
• Commitment: Fellows must reside in Amsterdam for the duration of the fellowship and actively participate in the institute’s activities.

If you are a researcher or practitioner from a formerly colonised country with a passion for exploring cultural and historical objects housed in the Netherlands, we encourage you to APPLY for this fellowship. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful discussions on decolonisation and cultural heritage. For further details, please visit the Official Website of NIAS.

Discover the fully funded NIAS–NIOD–KITLV Fellowship 2025, offering researchers from formerly colonised countries the chance to study cultural objects in the Netherlands.