The Centre on Asia and Globalisation (CAG), at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP), National University of Singapore, invites applications for a Research Fellow specialising in International Relations with a focus on Southeast Asia. This is a two-year fellowship offering an exceptional opportunity to conduct rigorous, policy-relevant research at one of Asia's most prestigious academic institutions.

The Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy is a leading global school of public policy, distinguished by its international faculty, diverse student body, and deep engagement with governments, think tanks, and policy communities across Asia and beyond. CAG was established in 2006 with a mandate to produce accurate, independent, and high-quality analysis on issues of regional and global significance for academia, decision-makers, commentators, and the general public.

CAG's current research agenda encompasses some of the most consequential questions shaping the contemporary world: the prospects for regional and global order; the future of economic globalisation and de-globalisation and their impact on Asia; the alignment postures of Southeast Asian states in an era of superpower competition; and the impact of technology and artificial intelligence on international politics. The successful candidate will join a vibrant, collegial community of internationally recognised scholars working at the intersection of academic rigour and policy relevance.

Responsibilities

The Research Fellow will carry three main areas of responsibility:

Independent Research: Conduct rigorous, original, and publishable peer-reviewed research on issues that advance understanding of regional perspectives on global challenges, contributing substantively to CAG's research agenda on Southeast Asia and the broader dynamics of international order.

Sentosa Forum Leadership Support: Play a central role in the organisation, management, and intellectual development of the School's inaugural Sentosa Forum, a flagship initiative led by CAG. Responsibilities include liaising with participants and invited speakers, synthesising and distilling key findings and outcomes, and directing and supervising the work of research assistants assigned to the Forum.

Intellectual Engagement at LKYSPP: Contribute actively to the broader intellectual life of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, including participation in seminars, workshops, and public events; engagement with faculty, visiting scholars, and students; and collaboration with colleagues across CAG and the wider School community.

Requirements

A Ph.D. in Political Science, International Relations, or History, with a specialisation in the international relations of Southeast Asia and/or the foreign policy of one or more countries in the region
The Ph.D. must be in hand or formally approved prior to the fellowship start date
Candidates whose research involves comparing the foreign policy responses of ASEAN countries to global and regional power shifts are especially encouraged to apply
Demonstrated capacity to produce rigorous, publishable academic research, with a strong writing sample that reflects analytical depth and scholarly quality
Ability to engage effectively with both research and policy communities in Singapore, Asia, and internationally
Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to manage collaborative projects and supervise junior research staff
A collaborative, intellectually curious disposition and the ability to thrive in an internationally diverse scholarly environment

Benefits

Internationally competitive salary and benefits package
A highly collegial and intellectually stimulating working environment alongside an internationally diverse community of scholars
Direct involvement in the impactful work of CAG and LKYSPP, including engagement with policymakers, academics, and thought leaders across the Asia-Pacific and globally
Access to the resources, networks, and reputation of the National University of Singapore, one of Asia's leading research universities
Opportunity to contribute to high-profile initiatives including the School's inaugural Sentosa Forum

Application

Applicants should submit the following documents:

A cover letter including a brief statement of research expertise and its relevance to CAG's research agenda
A curriculum vitae
One sample of academic writing

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. The closing date for submissions is 21 August 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for references and a possible interview.

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About National University of Singapore

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is a leading global research university committed to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation across a wide range of disciplines. Through institutions such as the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy and its Centre on Asia and Globalisation, NUS conducts rigorous, independent research on international relations, regional governance, and global policy issues of critical significance. The university serves academics, policymakers, and the broader public by providing evidence-based analysis and cultivating the next generation of leaders and thinkers.