NIAS Golestan Fellowship 2026: Applications Open, Benefits, Eligibility and How to Apply
Applications are now open for the NIAS Golestan Fellowship 2026, which offers a stipend to support researchers. The deadline is April 13, 2026. This fellowship targets non-Dutch scholars in medical or biological sciences whose work connects with humanities and social sciences. Key perks include time to focus on research at the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities and Social Sciences, or NIAS, plus facilities and funding. This article covers the benefits, who qualifies, and how to apply.
The Golestan Fellowships go to scholars who study medical or biological sciences in ways that link to humanities and social sciences. They focus on non-Dutch researchers who have already done important work in their field. At NIAS, fellows join a lively group of international scholars from different areas. They get to talk with others every day and receive helpful feedback on their projects. This setup helps everyone deepen their research in a supportive place.
Fellows enjoy several strong benefits from the Golestan Foundation. It offers one spot for either five months or ten months each academic year at NIAS. You get your own office, full access to research tools, and help with housing costs if you qualify. Funding comes as a personal stipend, or if you work with a Dutch university, as a grant to your school. Keep in mind that the stay demands full focus. Fellows must show up four days a week during their term.
Here are the main benefits in a quick list:
- Office space at NIAS for focused work.
- Access to all institute research facilities.
- Subsidized accommodation if eligible.
- Personal stipend or Dutch University Grant.
- Chance to connect with diverse scholars daily.
To qualify, you need more than three years of experience after your PhD. Your research must tie medical or biological sciences to social sciences or humanities. The Golestan Foundation honors the wishes of the late Prof. Dr. med. Kenower Weimar Bash by giving priority to non-Dutch scholars. English skills matter too, since it’s the main language at NIAS. You have to speak and write it well to join discussions and get feedback.
Key eligibility points include:
- Over 3 years post-PhD academic experience.
- Research linking medical/biological sciences to humanities/social sciences.
- Priority for non-Dutch researchers.
- Strong command of English.
The application process starts with an online form. The call runs from January 15 to April 13, 2026, for the 2027-2028 year. Submit everything by the deadline. Suitable people might also get picked through NIAS’s regular process by the Directorate. For details, check the Golestan Fellowship application form or the NIAS fellowship page.
Follow these steps to apply:
- Fill out the online application form.
- Write a project proposal up to 1,500 words (not counting footnotes, references, or abstract).
- Add your current CV.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the NIAS Golestan Fellowship 2026?
Non-Dutch scholars with over three years of post-PhD experience in medical or biological sciences linked to humanities or social sciences, and strong English skills.
What are the main benefits of the fellowship?
You get an office, access to research facilities, subsidized housing if eligible, a personal stipend or university grant, and daily interactions with international scholars.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is April 13, 2026, for the 2027-2028 academic year.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Fill out the online application form, include a project proposal up to 1,500 words, and attach your CV; check the NIAS website for details.