Have you ever wanted a unique opportunity to focus entirely on your research while gaining access to world-class facilities, networking, and support? The STIAS Iso Lomso Fellowship 2025 is designed to give African researchers just that—a chance to develop and pursue long-term research in a supportive environment. This program is much more than just a funding opportunity; it’s a gateway to academic growth, international collaboration, and career advancement.
Whether you’re an early-career researcher looking to establish yourself or a scholar aiming to expand your academic horizons, this fellowship offers tools and resources to turn your ideas into impactful research. The word “Iso Lomso” translates to “eye of tomorrow” in isiXhosa, reflecting the fellowship’s mission of laying strong foundations for the future of African research.
What is the 2025 STIAS Iso Lomso African Researchers’ Fellowship?
The Iso Lomso Fellowship, hosted by the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), is a three-year program created for African researchers who have completed their doctoral studies within the last seven years. It provides scholars with the time, resources, and support needed to focus entirely on research without the usual academic or administrative pressures.
This fellowship enables researchers to spend up to 10 months in residence at STIAS, where they can work on their projects while benefiting from access to the institute’s facilities and networking opportunities. Fellows also receive financial and institutional support to strengthen their careers and contribute to knowledge production in Africa.
Why Should You Apply?
Here are some great reasons to consider applying for this scholarship:
- Dedicated Research Time: The fellowship gives you uninterrupted time to focus on your research, free from teaching or administrative tasks.
- Top-tier Facilities: Access to world-class libraries, private offices, and high-speed internet to enhance your work.
- Networking: Engage with leading researchers, participate in seminars, and attend international conferences.
- Global Exposure: Opportunities to collaborate with partner institutions and participate in workshops worldwide.
- Financial Support: Enjoy a stipend, travel allowance, and subsidies that let you concentrate on your work.
What Subjects Are Covered?
The scholarship is open to the following programs at the participating universities:
- All courses
Benefits of the 2025 STIAS Iso Lomso African Researchers’ Fellowship
The 2025 STIAS Iso Lomso African Researchers’ Fellowship offers several benefits to eligible students:
- Financial Benefits:
- Economy-class return flights.
- Monthly stipend to cover daily living expenses.
- Subsidies for childcare (if applicable).
- Academic Support:
- Full access to STIAS resources, including libraries and study spaces.
- Participation in seminars, public lectures, and collaborative workshops.
- Funding to attend up to two international conferences or training workshops.
- Institutional Support:
- Replacement subsidies for your teaching position during residency.
- Assistance in organizing workshops or events at STIAS or your home institution.
- Residency Opportunities:
- Up to 10 months of residence at STIAS over three years.
- Opportunities for residencies at partner institutions abroad.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship is intended for PhD students who fall into the following categories:
- Be a citizen of any African country.
- Be born on or after January 1, 1983.
- Hold a PhD from a recognized university (completed after January 1, 2017).
- Have an academic position at a higher education or research institution in Africa.
- Have completed a postdoctoral fellowship or equivalent program.
- Be prepared to begin your residency at STIAS in 2026.
Required Documents: below is the list of the needed documents for the scholarship:
- A detailed CV, including your academic achievements and publications.
- A project proposal describing the research you intend to pursue during the fellowship.
- A cover letter explaining why you are a good fit for the fellowship.
- Copies of your doctoral degree and other relevant qualifications.
- Two reference letters from established academics familiar with your work.
How to Apply for 2025 STIAS Iso Lomso African Researchers’ Fellowship
Interested in joining the 2025 STIAS Iso Lomso African Researchers’ Fellowship? Here is a straightforward guide to help you apply:
- Visit the official STIAS Fellowships webpage.
- Create an account on the application portal.
- Fill in the online application form with accurate personal and academic details.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Ensure your project proposal is well-written and clearly highlights your research goals. The selection process is competitive, so take time to craft a compelling application.
Application Deadline(s)
The application deadline is February 15, 2025.
Conclusion
The STIAS Iso Lomso Fellowship 2025 is more than a fellowship—it’s a life-changing opportunity to advance your research and career. By offering time, resources, and global exposure, this program is helping to shape the future of African scholarship.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit the 2025 STIAS Iso Lomso African Researchers’ Fellowship page via the ‘HOW TO APPLY’ link above.