IIS UK Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025 (£5,000 Research Grant)
The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) is now accepting applications for the Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025, a prestigious academic award granted once every five years to an internationally recognized scholar in Classical Arabic Literature. This £5,000 fellowship supports the publication of original research that significantly contributes to the field of Ismaili Studies.
What is the Zahid Ali Fellowship?
Established in 1997, the Zahid Ali Fellowship honors Professor Zahid Ali (1888–1958), a trailblazer in modern Ismaili historiography. A graduate of Oxford University and a former faculty member of Nizam College in Hyderabad, Professor Zahid Ali published the first modern academic works on Ismaili history and doctrines, based on rare primary sources. His groundbreaking publications in Urdu in 1948 and 1954 remain key references in the field.
The fellowship was created at the request of his son, Professor Abid Ali, and his family, who also donated Professor Zahid Ali’s priceless collection of Ismaili manuscripts to the Institute of Ismaili Studies.
Degree Level
IIS UK Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025 (£5,000 Research Grant) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS).
Available Subjects
Following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program.
- Ismaili Studies
Benefits
- Award Amount: £5,000
- Award Frequency: Every 5 years
- Field of Study: Classical Arabic Literature
- Focus Area: Research relevant to Ismaili Studies
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to internationally recognized scholars with a proven track record in Classical Arabic Literature, who are currently working on or planning to publish original research connected to Ismaili Studies.
Ideal applicants will:
- Be fluent in classical Arabic texts and literary traditions.
- Have published or presented on themes that intersect with Islamic intellectual history or Ismaili heritage.
- Propose a research project that culminates in a publication such as a monograph, translation, or academic article that furthers the understanding of Ismaili thought, culture, or textual traditions.
Application Procedure
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents via email to scholarships@iis.ac.uk:
- A covering letter outlining interest and suitability.
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV).
- A writing sample (preferably a previously published work).
- A research proposal (max. 2,000 words) explaining the project scope, methodology, and relevance to Ismaili Studies.
Deadline: All application materials must be submitted by 30 September 2025.
Why Apply for the Zahid Ali Fellowship?
Receiving the Zahid Ali Fellowship is not only a mark of distinction but also provides crucial funding and recognition for scholarly work that bridges Arabic literature and Ismaili heritage. It is an exceptional opportunity for researchers to advance their projects, connect with the Institute of Ismaili Studies, and contribute to the preservation and exploration of Ismaili intellectual traditions.
About the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS)
The IIS, based in London, is a world-renowned research institute dedicated to the academic study of Islamic cultures and societies, with a particular emphasis on Ismaili heritage. It supports scholarly inquiry, education, and public engagement in areas ranging from theology and philosophy to history, art, and literature.
For more information, visit the official website: https://www.iis.ac.uk
