NUS CIL Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowship in International Law 2026
The Centre for International Law at the National University of Singapore offers a fully funded Postdoctoral Fellowship in International Law starting in September 2026. This chance targets early-career scholars who want to build careers in international law. It provides a one-year position with possible renewal, set at the Bukit Timah Campus in Singapore.
About the Centre for International Law (CIL)
CIL serves as a key research hub at NUS. It focuses on strong scholarship in international law. The centre builds skills in the Asia-Pacific area through workshops, conferences, and training. These events draw in academics, government workers, and business professionals. CIL also pushes for research that shapes policy.
Fellowship Overview
The fellowship lasts one year and may extend to a second year if performance is good. It begins in September 2026. Fellows work as research staff under Dr. Nilufer Oral, CIL’s director and a member of the International Law Commission. Professor Joseph Weiler, a visiting professor at NUS, helps lead the program. Applications opened on January 19, 2026.
Research Areas
Scholars in any part of international law can apply. The program gives extra attention to projects on the Asia-Pacific region, climate change law, and ASEAN law and policy. Fellows should aim for work that mixes deep academic study with real-world policy impact.
Programme Objectives and Academic Environment
This fellowship helps those on track for academic jobs. It offers one-on-one mentoring, workshops on research design and writing, and tips on publishing and teaching. Fellows learn about guiding students and building methods. They join CIL’s daily activities, share their work, join talks, and meet visiting experts.
Qualifications and Selection Criteria
To qualify, applicants need a PhD in international law earned in the last two years. Doctoral students who finish by July 31, 2026, may also apply. Judges look for top-quality dissertations, fresh ideas, and solid plans for future research.
Submit these items:
- PhD dissertation as a PDF
- Postdoctoral research proposal
- One or two published writing samples
Three reference letters go straight to [email protected]. At least one should come from a PhD supervisor or examiner. Letters must cover dissertation strength, project plans, and career promise.
Application Procedure
Use the online NUS career portal to apply. Aim for the preferred deadline of April 30, 2026, or the final one on May 15, 2026.
Gather these documents:
- Personal statement of 500-600 words on your drive, goals, and background
- Full CV with education, jobs, publications, awards, and honors
- PhD dissertation and proof of degree
- Research proposal up to 3,000 words on questions, methods, impact, and outputs like articles or book plans
- Executive summary up to 600 words
- One or two writing samples
- Three references sent separately
Only shortlisted applicants hear back.
Programme Expectations
Fellows must complete their research project. They need to publish or get acceptance for one or two peer-reviewed articles, or pitch a book to a good publisher. Join workshops, present at conferences in Singapore and abroad, and stay at NUS full-time. Short trips for research are okay. Follow standard NUS leave rules.
Additional Information
The job reference is 31488. Applications stay open until May 15, 2026. The role falls under research staff at CIL, NUS.
How to Apply
Get your documents ready and submit via the NUS career portal. Send early to stand out by the April 30 deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the fellowship start and how long does it last?
The fellowship starts in September 2026 and lasts one year, with a possible extension for a second year based on performance.
What qualifications do I need to apply?
You need a PhD in international law earned in the last two years, or you must complete it by July 31, 2026. Judges look for strong dissertations, new ideas, and clear future research plans.
What are the application deadlines?
The preferred deadline is April 30, 2026, but applications are accepted until the final deadline of May 15, 2026.
What documents should I submit for the application?
Submit a personal statement, full CV, PhD dissertation, research proposal up to 3,000 words, executive summary, one or two writing samples, and have three reference letters sent directly to [email protected].