Leiden, Netherlands 2025: The African Studies Centre Leiden – ASCL – Fellowship Programme: (Deadline 7 May, 2025)

The African Studies Centre Leiden (ASCL) invites applications for its prestigious Visiting Fellowship Programme. This initiative offers accomplished researchers focused on Africa the chance to undertake independent research, engage with the ASCL’s extensive academic resources, and collaborate with international scholars in Leiden, the Netherlands.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a PhD degree at the time of application.
• Have conducted research with a focus on Africa.
• Be actively pursuing an academic/research career.
• Have recent publications (books, chapters, or journal articles) that meet international standards.
• Be prepared to return to their country of citizenship or residence upon completion of the fellowship (as per visa regulations).

Additional Preferences:

• Preference is given to applicants based in Africa, defined as African Union (AU) member states.
• “Based in Africa” means the applicant has lived in Africa for at least two of the past four years.
• Strong emphasis is placed on the quality and feasibility of the proposed research.

Regions Applicable To

The programme is open to qualified researchers worldwide, with priority given to scholars based in African Union member states.

Application Deadline

Deadline to Apply: 7 May 2025

Application forms and full call texts are available on the ASCL website.

How to Apply

• Currently, there is an open call for fellowship. The text of the call and application form (in English and French) can be found here.
• If you want to be added to the mailing list for calls, please subscribe here.

Reviewing Procedure

Applicants must:

• Indicate the Collaborative Research Group (CRG) they wish to join.

• Ensure their research topic aligns with the CRG’s themes.

• Submit a research proposal, CV, and other required documents.

Each CRG will nominate one preferred candidate. Final selections are reviewed by the Visiting Fellowship Committee to ensure alignment with the programme’s objectives (e.g., gender and regional balance).

Fellowship Provisions

Successful fellows will receive:

• A return economy-class ticket to the Netherlands.
• A fixed allowance to cover living expenses.
• Accommodation in Leiden (shared kitchen and bathroom).

  • Fellows travelling with partners or children must arrange and fund their own accommodation.

• Medical/liability insurance (note: pre-existing conditions are not covered).
• Access to office space and library resources at ASCL.

Self-Financed Visitors

Independent researchers may also apply for a self-funded research visit. They will have access to:

• A shared desk (if available).
• Full use of the ASCL library.

Self-funded visitors must bring their own laptop and manage their own visa, travel, and accommodation arrangements. To apply, email your research proposal, CV, and proof of financial means to:
[email protected]

Contact Information

African Studies Centre Leiden (ASCL)

• Address:
  Herta Mohr Building
  Witte Singel 27A, 2311 BG Leiden, The Netherlands
  PO Box 9515, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
• Phone:
  +31 (0)71 527 33 72 / 76
  +31 (0)71 527 33 54 (Library)
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.ascleiden.nl

Application Deadline

Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your research career in a world-class academic environment. Apply by 7 May 2025!

Application forms and full call texts are available on the ASCL website.