Center for Eastern European Studies (CEES) Fellowship Program 2027: Funded Research Opportunity

The Center for Eastern European Studies (CEES) at the University of Zurich is offering a funded fellowship program for 2027. This opportunity is for scholars in social sciences or humanities who focus on Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, or Central Asia. The program aims to support research and scholarly activities within these regions.

Application Closing Date: October 12, 2026
Location: Zurich, Switzerland
Programme Duration: Four months (one semester)
Stipend: Funded living expenses, travel, and administrative costs
Minimum Qualification: Scholars in social sciences or humanities with a research focus on specified regions.

About the CEES Fellowship Program

The CEES Fellowship Program provides a unique opportunity for researchers to spend four months at the University of Zurich. During this period, fellows will conduct independent research and actively engage with the CEES scholarly community. The program is designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and advance research on historical and contemporary topics related to Eastern Europe and surrounding regions.

This residential fellowship offers access to the University of Zurich’s extensive libraries and a network of experts. Fellows are expected to present their research findings in a workshop and aim to publish their work through CEES publication outlets. The program supports both young and mid-career scholars who are innovative in their approach to research.

About the Center for Eastern European Studies (CEES)

The Center for Eastern European Studies (CEES) at the University of Zurich is dedicated to research and teaching on Eastern Europe. It brings together scholars from various disciplines to explore complex issues related to the region’s history, politics, and culture. The CEES fosters an environment for critical inquiry and interdisciplinary dialogue.

The center focuses on contemporary and historical topics concerning Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. It aims to be a leading academic hub for understanding these dynamic regions. Through its fellowship program and other activities, CEES contributes to a deeper understanding of the region’s challenges and opportunities.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The CEES Fellowship Program is open to scholars whose research aligns with the center’s priorities. While specific fields are broad within social sciences and humanities, the focus remains on the following areas:

• Research on historical or contemporary topics related to Russia.
• Scholarly work on Eastern Europe.
• Studies focusing on the Caucasus region.
• Research concerning Central Asia.

Priority is given to scholars in the early stages of their careers and those working on issues directly related to CEES research priorities.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants to the CEES Fellowship Program will receive several benefits designed to support their research and stay in Zurich. These benefits aim to provide a conducive environment for academic work and professional development.

• Funding: A stipend to cover living expenses for the four-month duration of the fellowship.
• Travel and Administrative Costs: Support for travel and administrative expenses incurred in Switzerland.
• Workspace: Access to a dedicated workspace at the CEES.
• Facilities: Use of other necessary facilities at the CEES.
• Housing Assistance: The CEES will assist fellows in finding accommodation in the Zurich area.
• Library Access: Full access to the University of Zurich’s library resources.
• Scholarly Engagement: Opportunities to participate in workshops and interact with the CEES academic community.
• Publication Opportunities: Potential to publish research findings in CEES publication outlets.

Programme Duration and Location

The CEES Fellowship Program is a four-month residential fellowship. It typically takes place over one semester at the University of Zurich in Switzerland. The program is designed to allow fellows to immerse themselves in their research and the academic environment.

The location in Zurich provides access to a vibrant academic and cultural setting. Fellows will be expected to be in residence for the entire duration of the program to fully benefit from the resources and community at CEES.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the CEES Fellowship Program, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure that fellows are well-suited to the program’s focus and academic standards.

• Academic Field: Open to scholars in social sciences or humanities.
• Research Focus: Must have a research focus on historical or contemporary topics related to Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, or Central Asia.
• Career Stage: Priority is given to scholars in the early stages of their careers.
• Institutional Affiliation: Applicants must be enrolled or employed at their home university.
• Geographic Preference: While open to international applicants, preference is given to scholars who are residents of Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia.

Competencies Required

Beyond academic qualifications, certain skills and personal qualities are beneficial for fellows to thrive in the CEES program. These competencies help ensure a productive and collaborative research experience.

• Research Skills: Demonstrated ability to conduct independent, high-quality research.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, as all application materials and presentations must be in English.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to engage constructively with colleagues and participate in scholarly discussions.
• Adaptability: Willingness to adapt to a new academic environment and cultural setting.
• Self-Motivation: The capacity to work independently and manage research timelines effectively.
• Scholarly Engagement: An active interest in contributing to the CEES community through presentations and discussions.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for early-career scholars and researchers who are passionate about Eastern European studies. If you are an academic working on Russia, Central Asia, the Caucasus, or Eastern Europe and seeking dedicated time and resources to advance your research, this program could be a great fit. It is particularly suited for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the region and contribute to academic discourse.

The program welcomes individuals who are eager to engage with an international academic community and benefit from the resources of a major European university. If you are affiliated with a higher education institution and your work aligns with CEES’s research priorities, you are strongly encouraged to apply.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare a comprehensive application package. All materials should be submitted in English as a single PDF document.

• Letter of Motivation: Clearly stating your interest in the fellowship and how it aligns with your research goals.
• Research Proposal: A detailed proposal (3-5 pages) outlining your research project.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including a full list of publications.
• Writing Sample: A short sample of your academic writing, such as an article or book chapter.
• Presentation Proposal: A brief proposal for a workshop presentation to be held at CEES.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation or the names of two referees.

How to Apply

To apply for the CEES Fellowship Program 2027, interested candidates must submit their complete application by email. Ensure all required documents are prepared and sent together.

Interested applicants should submit their application by email to: cees@isos.uzh.ch

Please ensure your application is sent before the closing date of October 12, 2026. All application materials must be compiled into a single PDF document. Carefully review all requirements and instructions before submitting your application.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding their application status. Late applications may not be considered. Applicants must ensure they meet all minimum requirements and that their application is complete.

Applicants should verify that their research focus aligns with the CEES priorities. The fellowship is a residential program, so fellows are expected to be present in Zurich for its duration. Ensure all submitted documents are clear and legible.

Closing Date

The closing date for the CEES Fellowship Program 2027 is October 12, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this date to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

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