Gulbenkian Institute Fellowship 2027 in Portugal (Funded Research Fellowship)
The Gulbenkian Institute for Advanced Study (GIAS) has officially opened applications for its 2027–2028 Fellowship Programme in Lisbon, Portugal. This prestigious residential fellowship offers established academics, independent scholars, and artists the opportunity to spend several months in Portugal pursuing original research in a collaborative international environment.
Unlike traditional university scholarships, the Gulbenkian Institute Fellowship is not a degree programme. Instead, it provides experienced researchers and creative professionals with uninterrupted time and financial support to focus on independent intellectual or artistic projects while interacting with scholars from around the world.
Applications are now invited for fellowships beginning in late January 2027, with appointments expected to be announced by April 2027.
Fellowship Summary
- Host Country: Portugal
- Location: Lisbon
- Host Institution: Gulbenkian Institute for Advanced Study (GIAS)
- Programme Type: Residential Research Fellowship
- Duration: Approximately 3–8 months
- Application Deadline: 15 October 2026 (3:00 p.m. Lisbon Time)
Degree Level
This is not a degree scholarship. It is a postdoctoral and senior research fellowship intended for established researchers, academics, and artists pursuing independent projects.
Available Subjects
Applications are welcome from a wide range of disciplines, including but not limited to:
- History
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Political Science
- Political Theory
- Archaeology
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Economics
- Cultural Studies
- Musicology
- Fine Arts
- Visual Arts
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Interdisciplinary Studies
Projects requiring laboratory facilities or extensive experimental research are generally not suitable.
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive several benefits during their residency in Portugal, including:
- Monthly fellowship stipend
- Housing allowance
- Office and research facilities at the Institute
- Access to an international multidisciplinary research community
- Opportunity to collaborate with leading scholars from around the world
- Protected time for independent research with minimal administrative responsibilities
- Participation in seminars, lectures, workshops, and academic discussions
- Residence at the Institute in Lisbon for the fellowship period
Note: The Foundation has not publicly announced a fixed stipend amount. The financial package may vary according to the individual fellowship offer.
Why Apply?
The Gulbenkian Institute Fellowship differs from many research programmes because it emphasises intellectual freedom rather than teaching or coursework. Fellows are encouraged to devote their time almost entirely to developing original research or creative work while benefiting from a vibrant academic environment.
The programme is particularly attractive for scholars seeking uninterrupted research time away from normal university responsibilities.
Eligible Nationalities
The fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities. Researchers and scholars from any country may apply provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should satisfy the following requirements:
- Be an established academic researcher or recognised scholar.
- Independent scholars with significant intellectual contributions may apply.
- Emeritus professors are eligible.
- Professionals with substantial academic or intellectual achievements are encouraged to apply.
- Practising artists with distinguished creative work may also apply.
- Submit an original research or creative project suitable for residential study.
- Be willing to reside in Lisbon for the entire fellowship period.
- Proposed research should not require laboratory facilities or experimental infrastructure.
- Former Gulbenkian fellows are not eligible to reapply within five years of completing a previous fellowship.
Application Procedure
Required Documents
Applicants are generally required to prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research or project proposal describing planned activities during residency
- Contact details of two referees
- Additional supporting information if requested by the Institute
Recommendation letters may be requested directly from referees during the evaluation process.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their applications online through the Institute's application system.
Follow these steps:
- Create a MyGulbenkian account.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload your updated CV.
- Submit your research or creative project proposal.
- Provide the names and contact information of two referees.
- Review all information carefully before submission.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be reviewed by the GIAS Advisory Board based on:
- Originality of the proposed project
- Academic or creative excellence
- Research achievements
- Suitability for residential research
- Potential contribution to the Institute's interdisciplinary community
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the Gulbenkian Institute Fellowship 2027–2028 is:
15 October 2026 (3:00 p.m. Lisbon Time)
