Fung Global Fellows Program 2027-2028: Research Opportunity at Princeton

The Fung Global Fellows Program at Princeton University is seeking early-career scholars for its 2027-2028 academic year. This program offers a unique opportunity for researchers outside the United States to spend 10 months in residence at Princeton, focusing on research and discussion around the theme “Democracy in Crisis?”.

Application Closing Date: November 16, 2026
Location: Princeton, New Jersey, USA
Programme Duration: 10 months (academic year)
Stipend: $100,000 – $135,000
Opportunity Type: Fellowship

About the Fung Global Fellows Program

The Fung Global Fellows Program is hosted by the Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies (PIIRS). It aims to bring together early-career scholars from around the world to engage in research and intellectual exchange. The program focuses on a specific theme each academic year, fostering a collaborative environment for exploring pressing global issues.

For the 2027-2028 academic year, the program’s theme is “Democracy in Crisis?”. This theme invites scholars to examine the challenges facing democratic governance globally, as well as the factors contributing to democratic resilience. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches to understanding populism, institutional erosion, the impact of technology, and the relationship between economic inequality and democracy.

The fellowship is designed for scholars who have demonstrated outstanding scholarly achievement and intellectual promise. Fellows are appointed at the rank of Visiting Research Scholar and are expected to return to their home institutions after the fellowship concludes. This program provides a valuable platform for scholars to advance their research and contribute to important academic conversations.

About Princeton University

Princeton University is a private Ivy League research university in Princeton, New Jersey. Founded in 1746, it is the eighth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. Princeton is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and commitment to research across a wide range of disciplines.

The university is a global leader in higher education, attracting students and scholars from around the world. Its PIIRS institute is dedicated to fostering research and dialogue on international and regional studies, making it an ideal host for the Fung Global Fellows Program. Princeton is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The Fung Global Fellows Program welcomes applications from scholars across various disciplines within the humanities and social sciences. The program seeks to create a diverse cohort representing different regions of the world. While specific fields of study are not limited, the research must align with the program’s annual theme.

Scholars whose work addresses the challenges and resilience of democratic governance are particularly encouraged to apply. This includes research on topics such as populism, democratic backsliding, the role of media and technology, economic inequality, and civic renewal. The selection committee looks for projects that show intellectual promise and contribute to the program’s intellectual life.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will receive a range of benefits designed to support their research and professional development. Fellows will be appointed at the rank of Visiting Research Scholar at Princeton University. This provides access to university resources, libraries, and academic communities.

The program offers a salary range of $100,000 to $135,000 for the 10-month academic year. This stipend is intended to cover living expenses and support the fellow’s research activities. Fellows will also have the opportunity to engage in discussions and collaborate with other scholars, fostering a rich intellectual environment.

Programme Duration and Location

The Fung Global Fellows Program runs for a full academic year, which is approximately 10 months. The program is based at the Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies (PIIRS) at Princeton University. The location is Princeton, New Jersey, in the United States.

The duration allows fellows ample time to conduct in-depth research, write, and participate in the program’s academic activities. Fellows are expected to be in residence at Princeton for the entire duration of the program. This immersive experience is central to the program’s goal of fostering intellectual exchange and collaboration.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the Fung Global Fellows Program, applicants must meet specific criteria. Applicants must have received their Ph.D. or an equivalent degree generally after September 1, 2017. Candidates currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program or working as postdocs are not eligible.

Fellowships are awarded to individuals employed outside the United States who hold a faculty or professional research appointment. They must be expected to return to their positions after the fellowship. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding scholarly achievement and unusual intellectual promise. The strength of the research project and its relation to the program’s theme are key selection criteria.

Competencies Required

The selection committee looks for candidates who can contribute significantly to the intellectual life of the program. This includes having a strong research project that aligns with the program’s theme, “Democracy in Crisis?”. Applicants should have a proven record of scholarly work and show intellectual promise.

The ability to engage in intellectual exchange with peers and faculty is also important. The program values a diverse cohort, so candidates whose work represents any region of the world and comes from any disciplinary background within the humanities and social sciences are encouraged. A willingness to share research and participate in discussions is essential.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for early-career scholars employed outside the United States who are looking to deepen their research on democracy, its challenges, and its resilience. If you have a strong academic record, have completed your Ph.D. recently, and are passionate about contributing to discussions on democratic governance, this program is for you.

The program suits individuals who can commit to a 10-month residency at Princeton and are eager to engage with a global community of scholars. If your research explores the dynamics of populism, democratic erosion, or the strategies for democratic renewal, and you wish to advance your academic career, you should consider applying.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit several documents as part of their online application. These include a cover letter, which should be a maximum of 1.5 pages. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) that includes a list of publications is also required.

Additionally, applicants need to submit a research proposal, no more than 3 pages single-spaced, detailing their project. A writing sample, such as an article or book chapter (maximum 50 pages), is also necessary. Applicants must also provide the names and email addresses of three referees who will be contacted to submit recommendation letters.

How to Apply

Applications for the Fung Global Fellows Program must be submitted online by November 16, 2026, by 11:59 p.m. ET. Applicants need to visit the provided application link to begin the process. Ensure all required documents are prepared and uploaded correctly.

It is important to read all instructions carefully and ensure that your application is complete before submitting. Referees will be contacted automatically by the online system to upload their letters of recommendation by the deadline.

Click here to apply for the Fung Global Fellows Program

For more information, visit the official Fung Global Fellows Program website.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding their application status. Late applications will not be considered, so ensure your submission is made before the November 16, 2026 deadline. Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements, including the Ph.D. completion date and employment status outside the United States.

Incomplete applications may be disqualified. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure all documents are submitted correctly and that referees submit their letters of recommendation on time. This fellowship is a competitive opportunity, and careful preparation of your application is advised.

Closing Date

The closing date for the Fung Global Fellows Program 2027-2028 is November 16, 2026.

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