Princeton University Fung Global Fellows Program 2027–2028: International Research Fellowship in the USA
Early-career scholars from around the world are invited to apply for the 2027–2028 Fung Global Fellows Program at Princeton University in the United States. Hosted by the Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies (PIIRS), the programme offers an opportunity for selected researchers to spend 10 months in residence at Princeton, pursuing research and engaging in intellectual discussions with an international group of scholars.
The theme for the 2027–2028 academic year is “Democracy in Crisis?” The programme welcomes applications from researchers in the humanities and social sciences whose work examines challenges facing democratic governance, the resilience of democratic institutions and the changing meaning of democracy across different societies.
Applications are open until 16 November 2026.
About the Fung Global Fellows Program
The Fung Global Fellows Program brings together outstanding early-career scholars from different countries and academic disciplines to explore a shared research theme. Fellows spend an academic year at Princeton University, where they develop their individual research projects while participating in discussions and intellectual exchanges with fellow researchers and Princeton faculty.
Successful applicants will be appointed as Visiting Research Scholars at the Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies.
For the 2027–2028 programme, Princeton is seeking scholars interested in examining the pressures affecting democratic systems and the factors that help democracies withstand political, institutional and social challenges.
2027–2028 Research Theme: Democracy in Crisis?
Democratic governance is facing significant challenges around the world. Political polarisation, populist movements, declining public trust, disinformation and the weakening of democratic institutions have raised important questions about the future of democracy.
The programme invites researchers to investigate these developments and explore the conditions that support democratic resilience and renewal.
Potential research areas include:
- The causes and development of populist movements.
- The erosion of democratic norms and institutions.
- The influence of media, technology and disinformation on political participation.
- Economic inequality and its relationship with democratic legitimacy.
- The role of civil society and grassroots movements in defending democracy.
- Judicial independence and institutional safeguards.
- Democratic renewal and civic participation.
- The conceptual and normative foundations of democracy.
Applicants may focus on any region of the world and use contemporary or historical perspectives. Research from across the humanities and social sciences is welcome.
Fellowship Benefits and Opportunities
Selected fellows will receive a 10-month, in-person research appointment at Princeton University in Princeton, New Jersey.
The programme provides an opportunity to:
- Spend an academic year conducting research at Princeton University.
- Be appointed as a Visiting Research Scholar.
- Participate in interdisciplinary academic discussions.
- Exchange ideas with international scholars and Princeton faculty.
- Develop research connected to an important global theme.
- Build academic and professional networks across disciplines and regions.
Important funding information: The official application announcement does not specify the fellowship stipend or detailed financial benefits. Applicants should consult the programme directly for confirmation of the financial terms before applying.
Eligibility Requirements
The fellowship is intended for early-career scholars who have demonstrated strong academic achievement and research potential.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent qualification, generally awarded after 1 September 2017.
- Be employed outside the United States.
- Hold a faculty appointment or professional research appointment.
- Have an established record of scholarly achievement and demonstrate strong research potential.
- Propose a research project that aligns with the 2027–2028 theme, “Democracy in Crisis?”
Applicants must be prepared to spend the academic year in residence at Princeton University and are expected to return to their current positions after completing the fellowship.
Who is not eligible?
- Applicants currently enrolled in a PhD programme.
- Individuals currently employed as postdoctoral researchers.
- Applicants who do not meet the employment and appointment requirements.
Successful candidates who receive an offer must provide an official letter from their current employer confirming that they are permitted to accept the fellowship and spend the academic year at Princeton.
Required Application Documents
Applications must be submitted online and written in English. Applicants should prepare the following documents:
| Document | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Cover letter | Maximum 1.5 pages |
| Curriculum Vitae | Must include publications |
| Research proposal | Maximum 3 single-spaced pages |
| Writing sample | One article or book chapter, maximum 50 pages |
| Referees | Names and email addresses of three referees |
Applicants should address their cover letter to “Dear Search Committee.”
Once an application is submitted, the online system will automatically contact the three referees and invite them to upload their recommendation letters. All reference letters must be received before the application deadline.
Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications early to give referees sufficient time to complete their recommendations.
How to Apply for the Fung Global Fellows Program 2027–2028
Interested candidates must apply through Princeton University’s online application portal.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official Fung Global Fellows Program application page.
- Review the eligibility requirements and research theme.
- Prepare your cover letter, academic CV, research proposal and writing sample.
- Identify three referees and obtain their correct email addresses.
- Complete the online application through Interfolio.
- Submit your application and ensure that all three recommendation letters are uploaded before the deadline.
Only applications submitted through the official online portal will be considered. Applications submitted by email, fax or post will not be accepted. Late applications and supplementary materials are not permitted.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the 2027–2028 Fung Global Fellows Program is:
16 November 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (EST).
The application portal will close at the deadline, and late submissions will not be accepted.
Finalists invited for virtual interviews can expect to be contacted between mid-December 2026 and early January 2027. Successful candidates are expected to be notified by early February 2027.
