Institute of Languages, Cultures and Societies - Sylvia Naish Fellowship

Sylvia Naish Fellowship

During a research visit to London, you will receive up to £3,500 (about 4,100 EUR) as a contribution towards your living costs. The amount will be paid into your bank account at the start of your stay. You will spend at least 1 months at the Institute of Languages, Cultures and Societies (ILCS), which is part of the University of London, at a time between 1 October 2026 and 31 July 2027. In addition to the grant, you will be provided with a shared office with Wi-Fi and printing facilities, access to the German Studies Library and the Senate House Library, as well as free admission to the Institute’s events. The fellowship is funded by a bequest from Sylvia Naish and is intended to support research in the field of German language and literature. You will need to arrange your own accommodation, as none is provided.

Who can apply

• Career stage: You have already completed your PhD (postdoctoral researcher).
• Field: Your field of research covers any area of the German language and literature.
• Where you live: You may be resident in the UK or abroad.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• Length of stay: You will spend at least 1 months at the institute in London.
• No double funding: You may not receive any other scholarship or award at the same time.
• Publications: An impressive publication record commensurate with your career stage is desirable, but not a prerequisite.

How to apply

Please submit an application form, a research proposal (up to 1,500 words), a brief description of your potential contribution to the institute, a CV, a list of publications and two academic references. The application deadline for the 2026–27 round is 5 May 2026. There will be no interview, and you will receive a response around mid-July.

How realistic are your chances?

Only one scholarship is awarded each year, and it is aimed at a narrowly defined group: postdoctoral researchers who specialise in German language and literature and are able to spend a month in London. This keeps the pool of applicants small, but the requirement for a solid publication record sets the bar high. If your research project clearly fits within this field and your previous work is compelling, your prospects are good.