Deadline: 12-Feb-2026
The Arab Council for the Social Sciences (ACSS) invites applications for its Small Grants Program focused on “Constantine Zurayk: Nation, Identity, and History.” Grants of up to USD 3,000 support early-career Arab scholars conducting research on nationhood, identity formation, and historical narratives across the Arab region.
Overview
The ACSS Small Grants Program (ninth cycle) supports research in the social sciences and humanities, encouraging innovative projects on nation, identity, and history in the Arab world. This cycle emphasizes work inspired by Constantine Zurayk, focusing on historical events shaping Arab nationhood and identity formation.
Key Objectives:
-
Support early-career scholars and PhD candidates in the dissertation-writing stage
-
Fund pilot phases, specific project phases, or development of previous studies
-
Promote interdisciplinary approaches to nationhood, identity, and historical narratives
-
Encourage outputs such as research papers, chapters, archival studies, digital resources, or dissertation chapters
Funding and Benefits
-
Grant amount: Up to USD 3,000
-
Number of recipients: 2–3 researchers per cycle
-
Coverage: Fieldwork costs, consultations, research equipment, and stipends within specified limits
-
Output requirement: Submission of a working paper for the ACSS Working Papers Series
-
Participation in the Sixth Research Forum (Spring 2026), supported by ACSS
Eligibility
-
Arab citizens, refugees, stateless individuals from the Arab region, or persons of Arab origin residing abroad
-
PhD candidates in dissertation writing or individuals within three years of completing their PhD
-
Early-career scholars exploring nationhood, historical narratives, and identity formation
Application Process
-
Prepare required documents:
-
CV
-
One-page cover letter
-
Proof of nationality
-
Research proposal
-
Academic documents
-
Completed timeline and outputs form
-
Budget request
-
-
Submit applications by the specified deadline
-
Budgets may include fieldwork, consultations, research equipment, and stipends
-
Strict prohibition on AI-written proposals
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated by a multidisciplinary committee of Arab scholars based on:
-
Significance and originality of the project
-
Engagement with Constantine Zurayk’s work
-
Feasibility of the proposed research
-
Applicant competence and qualifications
-
Expected outputs and contribution to the field
Post-Selection Requirements
-
Respond to committee feedback and sign a grant contract
-
Adhere to the approved research timeline
-
Submit narrative and financial reports
-
Present research at the Sixth Research Forum in Spring 2026
-
Grant period: April to October 2026 with final outputs due November 2026
Why It Matters
This grant enables early-career Arab scholars to explore critical issues of nationhood, historical memory, and identity formation, contributing to scholarship that contextualizes the region’s social and historical dynamics. Participants gain mentorship, visibility, and the opportunity to disseminate research through ACSS platforms.
FAQ
1. Who is eligible to apply?
PhD candidates in the dissertation-writing stage or scholars within three years of completing their PhD, who are Arab citizens, refugees, stateless, or of Arab origin abroad.
2. What is the maximum grant amount?
USD 3,000 per selected researcher.
3. What type of research is supported?
Pilot phases, fieldwork, archival studies, data analysis, or development of previous projects focused on nation, identity, and history.
4. Can AI tools be used to prepare proposals?
No, AI-generated proposals are strictly prohibited.
5. What are the required outputs?
A working paper for the ACSS Working Papers Series and presentation at the Sixth Research Forum in Spring 2026.
6. What is the grant period?
April to October 2026, with final outputs due in November 2026.
Conclusion
The ACSS Small Grants Program provides an invaluable platform for early-career scholars to advance research on nationhood, identity, and historical change in the Arab world. By fostering high-quality research, offering mentorship, and supporting dissemination through ACSS channels, the program strengthens scholarly engagement and contributes to the region’s academic development.
For more information, visit ACSS.