The Institute of Asian Research (IAR) is pleased to invite applications for the 2026/27 IAR Scholars Program, formerly known as IAR Fellows Program. This program brings together UBC graduate students with interests in research that addresses a broad range of issues—particularly those with relevance to current affairs or global affairs—and is based on engagement with and deep knowledge of Asia.
The IAR is home to five interdisciplinary, regionally focused research Centres: Centre for Chinese Research, Centre for India and South Asia Research, Centre for Japanese Research, Centre for Korean Research, and the Centre for Southeast Asia Research. In addition, there are programs focusing on specific parts of Asia, including the Himalaya Program and the Myanmar Initiative. The IAR and its Centres serve as forums for collaborative work and joint exploration of issues relevant to Asia and its diaspora.
The 2026/27 IAR Scholars cycle will run from September 28, 2026, to June 30, 2027. During this time, IAR Scholars will benefit from supportive engagement with faculty members and other scholars, and immersion in the intellectually stimulating IAR/SPPGA community. IAR Scholars will also have opportunities to showcase their research amongst both academics and relevant community stakeholders. The program welcomes applications from all disciplines across the social sciences, applied sciences, professional schools, and humanities.
Last year, 41 IAR Scholars were chosen from a cohort of highly qualified candidates representing twelve departments and institutes on campus, including Anthropology, Asian Studies, Educational Studies, Forestry, Geography, History, Institute for Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice, Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, Law, Political Science, School of Community and Regional Planning, and School of Public Policy and Global Affairs.
Eligibility
Graduate students (MA and PhD) enrolled at UBC for the 2026/27 academic year are eligible to apply. Applications from students enrolled in the Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs program are especially encouraged.
Scholars Program Benefits
- Desk space in the appropriate IAR regional Centre (usage subject to each Centre’s policy and availability).
- Mentorship and engagement opportunities with faculty associated with the IAR Centres.
- Collaboration and mutual learning with other IAR scholars, as well as in a range of scholarly and professional events
- Extensive networking with scholars and professionals in the field, particularly through IAR events.
- IAR Scholars are encouraged to produce a short current affairs-oriented memo or paper based on their research. Upon successful publication in a designated outlet (including East Asia Forum, The Diplomat, iAffairs Canada, among many others), Scholars will be eligible for up to $500 publication award(deadline: June 30, 2027).
Program Expectations
Scholars are expected to demonstrate active engagement with their Centre and with the wider IAR community, including:
- Participation in and contribution to brown-bag seminars (e.g., research presentations, guided discussions on regional developments, or inviting guest speakers).
- Regular attendance and participation in IAR and Centre events.
- Submission of a brief one-page report in May 2027 outlining activities and achievements during the scholarship term.
Application Process
Applications should be submitted directly to the Director of the Centre most aligned with your academic interests (see below). Please include:
- A subject line: Application to IAR Scholars Program – Your Name – MA/PhD
- A CV
- A one-page cover letter outlining your research interests and suitability for the Scholars Program
Centre Directors will assess applicants based on their credibility, research relevance, and enthusiasm for engaging with the Centre’s community.
Deadline: September 13, 2026. Applications may be accepted later if slots remain available.
Applicants will be informed of their result during the third week of the 2026/27 Academic Year.
Centre Contacts
- Centre for Chinese Research– Professor Qiang Fu and Professor Timothy Cheek (ccr.iar@ubc.ca)
- Centre for India and South Asia Research– Professor M.V. Ramana (cisar.iar@ubc.ca)
- Centre for Japanese Research– Professor Yves Tiberghien and Professor Shigenori Matsui (cjr.iar@ubc.ca)
- Centre for Korean Research– Professor Steven Lee and Professor Nam-lin Hur (ckr.iar@ubc.ca)
- Centre for Southeast Asia Research– TBC (csear.iar@ubc.ca)
- Himalaya Program– Professors Sara Shneiderman and Tsering Shakya (himalaya.arts@ubc.ca)
This program provides an excellent opportunity to connect with scholars across disciplines, participate in rich programming, and contribute to vibrant intellectual communities centred on Asia.
