If you’re passionate about uncovering lost histories, reclaiming cultural narratives, and contributing to the global heritage conversation, the NIAS-NIOD-KITLV Fellowship: Moving Objects, Mobilising Culture offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers, heritage experts, and cultural activists from formerly colonized countries.
This fellowship allows you to dive deep into historical collections housed in the Netherlands and engage with communities and histories that extend far beyond national borders.
Here’s how this fellowship can empower you to make a meaningful impact in the world of cultural heritage.
What is the NIAS-NIOD-KITLV Fellowship?
The NIAS-NIOD-KITLV Fellowship is a unique, fully funded research opportunity designed for scholars and professionals from formerly colonized countries.
This fellowship provides a platform to explore social histories, the valuation of cultural objects, and the narratives of artifacts that are often overlooked in traditional institutional frameworks.
It is an opportunity to reclaim lost cultural narratives and connect objects with their countries of origin.
Why This Fellowship is a Game-Changer
The fellowship allows you to access world-renowned collections in the Netherlands, including those at institutions like the Rijksmuseum, Wereldmuseum, Museum Bronbeek, and the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands.
Imagine researching artifacts from your home country, diving into their histories, and even contributing to discussions on restitution.
This fellowship isn’t just about research—it’s about restoring the relationship between these objects and their communities.
Fellowship Benefits
As a recipient of the NIAS-NIOD-KITLV Fellowship, you will enjoy numerous benefits, including:
- Fully funded research fellowship for five months (September 2025 – January 2026) in the Netherlands.
- Travel expenses within the Netherlands (up to €500).
- Access to prestigious collections from renowned institutions such as the Rijksmuseum and Wereldmuseum.
- Research mentorship and support from NIAS, NIOD, and KITLV.
- A platform to challenge mainstream heritage narratives and explore the cultural significance of objects in contemporary contexts.
Who is Eligible for the Fellowship?
The fellowship is open to researchers and professionals from formerly colonized countries with collections housed in the Netherlands.
If you have expertise in one of the following fields, this fellowship could be perfect for you:
- Historians
- Archaeologists
- Social Scientists
- Heritage Experts
- Artists
- Journalists
- Cultural Activists
Research Areas You Can Explore
During your fellowship, you can explore several exciting research areas related to cultural heritage, including:
- Cultural, historical, or ancestral objects housed in institutions in the Netherlands.
- The social histories and valuation of objects beyond traditional restitution debates.
- Re-establishing connections between artifacts and their countries of origin.
- The contemporary significance of objects and their role in modern cultural contexts.
How to Apply
To apply for this prestigious fellowship, you’ll need to submit several documents, including:
- Your Curriculum Vitae and a list of publications or creative works.
- A research proposal (max 500 words) outlining your proposed activities.
- An outline of objects or collections you wish to research (max 500 words).
- A reflection on how this research connects with the country of origin (max 500 words).
- A reflection on how your research can uncover new histories beyond mainstream narratives (max 500 words).
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the NIAS-NIOD-KITLV Fellowship is 17 March 2025, 12:00 PM CET.
Candidates will be notified of their selection by the end of April 2025.
Apply Now!
If you’re ready to be part of a groundbreaking opportunity to engage with lost histories and contribute to the global heritage dialogue, the NIAS-NIOD-KITLV Fellowship: Moving Objects, Mobilising Culture is your chance.
