Deadline: 05-Jan-2026
The NYU Abu Dhabi Humanities Research Fellowship (HRF) invites early-career scholars to apply for a residential postdoctoral fellowship focused on the Arab world for the 2026–27 academic year. Fellows receive research support, housing, a stipend, and the opportunity to participate in workshops and seminars on NYUAD’s Saadiyat campus. Applications close January 5, 2026, via Interfolio.
Overview
The Humanities Research Fellowship (HRF) at NYU Abu Dhabi supports early-career scholars dedicated to research on the Arab world. The fellowship provides a vibrant academic environment on the Saadiyat campus, including access to NYUAD’s library, administrative support, and opportunities to contribute to the university’s intellectual community.
The program is open to scholars of all backgrounds and nationalities working in humanities disciplines, including literature, history, cultural heritage, arts, and interdisciplinary studies connecting the Arab world with other regions.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
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On-campus workspace and full access to NYUAD library facilities
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Housing in Abu Dhabi
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A fellowship stipend and research allowance
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Support for travel to and from Abu Dhabi
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Opportunity to host a small workshop or research talk
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Possible opportunity to teach a course at NYUAD
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Mentorship and engagement with NYUAD’s scholarly community
Fellows are responsible for adhering to the tax regulations of their home country.
Who Is Eligible?
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Recent PhD graduates (PhD completed between September 2021 and September 2026)
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Early- to mid-career scholars with a strong record of scholarly achievement
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Scholars aiming to turn their doctoral dissertation into a book manuscript suitable for publication with major academic presses
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Applicants from all nationalities and backgrounds working in humanities disciplines related to the Arab world
Research Focus Areas
Eligible research includes, but is not limited to:
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Arab literature, history, and cultural heritage
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Interdisciplinary projects connecting Arab studies with global humanities initiatives
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Research aligned with NYUAD Arts and Humanities or Social Sciences divisions
Fellowship Responsibilities
Fellows are expected to:
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Relocate to Abu Dhabi and commence the fellowship on September 1, 2026
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Conduct independent research aligned with their proposed project
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Present research through seminars, workshops, or talks
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Attend colleagues’ presentations and participate in HRF seminars
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Occasionally mentor junior scholars
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Optionally teach a course at NYUAD
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via Interfolio by January 5, 2026. Required documents:
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Curriculum Vitae (CV): Up to 4 pages, single-spaced
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Project Proposal: Up to 1,250 words detailing research objectives and methodology
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Dissertation Abstract: Up to 250 words
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Letters of Reference: Two letters; at least one must address dissertation progress
Referees submit their letters directly via Interfolio.
Application Review Process
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Applications are reviewed by the program’s Principal Investigators
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Evaluations are conducted by a diverse committee of expert reviewers
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Selection is highly competitive, based on scholarly merit, project potential, and alignment with HRF’s research focus
Why It Matters
The HRF offers early-career scholars the opportunity to:
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Advance cutting-edge research on the Arab world
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Engage in an interdisciplinary, global academic community
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Gain mentorship and professional support to develop their research into publishable outputs
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Contribute to NYUAD’s dynamic scholarly ecosystem
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Missing the January 5, 2026 deadline
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Exceeding word limits for project proposals or dissertation abstracts
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Submitting references not directly through Interfolio
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Failing to meet eligibility criteria for PhD completion dates
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Neglecting to demonstrate alignment with the Arab world research focus
FAQ
1. Who can apply for the fellowship?
Early-career scholars with a PhD completed between September 2021 and September 2026, working in humanities disciplines related to the Arab world.
2. How many fellows are selected?
Up to two fellows may be selected for the 2026–27 academic year, pending budget availability.
3. What benefits are included?
Housing, stipend, research allowance, travel support, workspace, access to NYUAD library, and workshop hosting opportunities.
4. Can I teach while holding the fellowship?
Yes, fellows may request to teach a course at NYUAD during the fellowship period.
5. Is the fellowship open to international applicants?
Yes, scholars of all nationalities and backgrounds are eligible.
6. When does the fellowship start?
September 1, 2026, pending final approval and budget availability.
7. How are applications evaluated?
Applications are reviewed by HRF Principal Investigators and a committee of expert reviewers, focusing on scholarly merit and project potential.
Conclusion
The NYU Abu Dhabi Humanities Research Fellowship 2026–27 provides early-career scholars with the resources, mentorship, and platform to advance research on the Arab world. Fellows gain invaluable professional experience, networking opportunities, and the chance to contribute to a dynamic, interdisciplinary academic community on NYUAD’s Saadiyat campus.
For more information, visit HRF.