Are you passionate about rediscovering forgotten histories, restoring cultural narratives, and making a significant impact in the field of heritage? The Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS) Fellowship 2025 offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers, heritage specialists, artists, journalists, archaeologists, and cultural advocates from previously colonized nations to engage in meaningful research on historical collections in the Netherlands.

The NIAS – NIOD – KITLV Fellowship: Moving Objects, Mobilising Culture is designed for individuals interested in exploring archives, museums, and cultural institutions to reconnect artifacts with their communities and uncover histories beyond conventional narratives. This prestigious program fosters a global dialogue on heritage and restitution, supported by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science.

Why Apply for This Fellowship?

Imagine gaining direct access to historical archives, museums, and collections in the Netherlands containing objects from your homeland. This fellowship is more than research—it is an opportunity to restore stories, interact with lost artifacts, and contribute to global heritage discussions.

The program specifically supports researchers keen on exploring the social histories, significance, and trajectories of objects outside traditional institutional frameworks. If your research delves into restitution, cultural heritage, or the role of artifacts in contemporary society, this fellowship provides the platform and resources to bring your ideas to life.

Fellowship Benefits

Recipients of the NIAS Fellowship 2025 will enjoy:

• Fully funded five-month research fellowship in the Netherlands (September 2025 – January 2026).
• Travel cost reimbursement within the Netherlands (up to €500).
• Exclusive access to world-renowned collections at institutions such as:
  • Rijksmuseum
  • Wereldmuseum
  • Museum Bronbeek
  • Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands
• Institutional support and research guidance from NIAS, NIOD, and KITLV.
• An opportunity to study cultural heritage outside mainstream institutional narratives.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

This fellowship is open to researchers and professionals from previously colonized nations with historical collections in the Netherlands. Applicants should have expertise in one or more of the following fields:

• Historians
• Archaeologists
• Social Scientists
• Heritage Experts
• Artists
• Journalists
• Cultural Activists

Research Focus Areas

Participants can conduct research on:

• Cultural, historical, or heritage artifacts in the Netherlands.
• Social narratives and alternative interpretations beyond restitution discussions.
• Reconnecting objects with their original communities.
• Exploring the contemporary significance of historical artifacts.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following:

1. Resume & portfolio of publications or artistic works.
2. Research proposal (maximum 500 words) outlining the objectives and planned research activities.
3. Summary of artifacts or collections to be studied (maximum 500 words).
4. Explanation of the research’s connection to the applicant’s country of origin (maximum 500 words).
5. Reflection on how the study can challenge traditional historical narratives (maximum 500 words).

An expert panel from NIAS, NIOD, and KITLV will evaluate applications, ensuring diversity in disciplinary and regional representation.

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Visit the official NIAS Fellowship webpage.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Upload all required documents.
4. Submit before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for the NIAS Fellowship?
Researchers, cultural professionals, and artists from formerly colonized nations with historical collections in the Netherlands.

2. What expenses does the fellowship cover?
It covers research funding, travel reimbursements, and institutional support.

3. What kind of projects are encouraged?
Projects exploring alternative narratives, social histories, and reconnecting artifacts with their communities.

4. When does the fellowship take place?
The program runs from September 2025 to January 2026.

Apply Now

Take advantage of this prestigious fellowship opportunity to engage with historical collections, challenge dominant narratives, and contribute to global heritage discussions. Secure your place at NIAS for the 2025 Fellowship and be part of a transformative research initiative!

Apply Here