Dream of National Taiwan Library Fellowship? In the realm of academic research, opportunities that foster cross-cultural collaborations and provide access to unique resources are invaluable. The National Taiwan Library (NTL) offers one such prestigious opportunity through its 2025 Fellowship for International Visiting Scholars. This fellowship is meticulously designed to support scholars from around the globe in their pursuit of advanced research in Taiwan Studies and Southeast Asian Studies. By facilitating access to NTL’s extensive collections and promoting international academic exchange, the fellowship aims to enrich the global discourse in these fields.
About the National Taiwan Library Fellowship
Established with a mission to preserve and disseminate Taiwan’s rich cultural and historical heritage, the National Taiwan Library stands as a beacon of knowledge and research. Housing an extensive array of resources, including rare manuscripts, historical documents, and a vast collection of books and periodicals, NTL serves as an indispensable hub for researchers delving into Taiwan’s multifaceted history, culture, and societal developments.
Fellowship Overview
The 2025 National Taiwan Library Fellowship for International Visiting Scholars is part of NTL’s ongoing commitment to fostering international academic collaboration. The fellowship provides scholars with the opportunity to engage in in-depth research utilizing NTL’s comprehensive resources, thereby contributing to the global understanding of Taiwan and Southeast Asia.
Eligibility Criteria
To ensure a diverse and qualified pool of applicants, NTL has outlined specific eligibility criteria for the fellowship:
- Academic Positions: Applicants should hold current positions in relevant departments of foreign universities or research institutions. This includes roles such as professors, associate professors, assistant professors, senior lecturers, lecturers, postdoctoral researchers, doctoral degree holders, doctoral candidates, and Ph.D. students.
- Library and Research Personnel: Individuals serving as library personnel or researchers of equivalent rank at related academic institutions are also eligible to apply.
- Special Recommendations: Candidates not falling within the above categories may still be considered if recommended by an institution that has an existing academic cooperation memorandum of understanding (MOU) with NTL, provided their research topics align with the fellowship’s focus areas.
It’s important to note that individuals currently engaged in research, teaching, or studies within Taiwan are not eligible for this fellowship.
Research Focus Areas
The fellowship emphasizes research projects within the humanities and social sciences, specifically targeting:
- Taiwan Studies: Explorations into Taiwan’s history, culture, society, and related disciplines.
- Southeast Asian Studies: Research delving into the various aspects of Southeast Asian countries, including their histories, cultures, and social dynamics.
Application Process
Prospective fellows are required to submit a comprehensive application package during the designated application period, which concludes on April 13, 2025. The application must include:
- Application Form: To be completed online through NTL’s official application portal.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV outlining academic qualifications, professional experience, and a list of publications.
- Research Proposal: A well-structured proposal, limited to three pages, detailing the research objectives, methodology, and the significance of the study. The proposal should adhere to standard academic research conventions and be written in either Chinese or English.
- Recommendation Letter: One letter of recommendation, submitted as a PDF file. The referee should send this directly to [email protected] with the subject line “Recommendation Letter for [Applicant’s Name]” by April 13, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
- Letter of Approval: A formal letter from the highest administrative authority at the applicant’s home institution (such as a department head or dean) approving the application.
Incomplete applications or those submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
Selection Process
Applications undergo a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a panel of experts in the relevant fields. The selection criteria focus on the academic merit of the proposed research, its alignment with the fellowship’s focus areas, and the applicant’s potential to contribute meaningfully to the body of knowledge in Taiwan or Southeast Asian Studies. Successful candidates will be notified by the end of May 2025, with the list of awardees published on NTL’s official website and the Taiwan Studies Research Center’s webpage.
Fellowship Duration and Commencement
Awardees are expected to register between June 1 and June 30, 2025. The National Taiwan Library Fellowship tenure ranges from three to six months, commencing within this registration period. It’s important to note that the fellowship duration cannot span across calendar years, and deferrals to subsequent years are not permitted.
Financial Support
The National Taiwan Library Fellowship provides substantial financial assistance to support the scholars during their research tenure:
- Airfare Subsidy: Reimbursement for one economy-class round-trip ticket to Taiwan, based on the most direct route. The maximum subsidy amounts are:
- Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia: Up to New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) 35,000.
- Other Regions: Up to NTD 60,000.
Reimbursements are based on actual expenses incurred, up to the specified limits.
- Monthly Research Grant:
- Scholars with a Doctoral Degree: A monthly stipend of NTD 60,000.
- Scholars without a Doctoral Degree: A monthly stipend of NTD 40,000.
These financial provisions are designed to cover living expenses and research-related costs during the fellowship period.
Expectations and Obligations
Fellows are expected to:
- Conduct Research: Engage in the proposed research project utilizing NTL’s resources effectively.
Collaborate and Share: Participate in academic exchanges, workshops, and seminars, sharing insights and findings with NTL staff and the broader
academic community. This encourages mutual growth and fosters long-term scholarly relationships.
- Final Report Submission: At the conclusion of the fellowship, awardees must submit a comprehensive research report (either in Chinese or English) detailing the work undertaken during their stay. This report becomes part of NTL’s archival documentation and may be referenced in future academic or institutional reports.
- Acknowledgment Requirement: In any publications, presentations, or academic work derived from the fellowship-supported research, scholars are required to acknowledge the support of the National Taiwan Library. This helps promote the program globally and affirms the institutional support provided by NTL.
Immersive Academic Environment
One of the most compelling features of the NTL Fellowship is the immersive research environment. Scholars are not merely provided access to physical materials but are also welcomed into an intellectual ecosystem. This includes:
- Access to Special Collections: NTL houses rare and unique collections on Taiwan and Southeast Asia, many of which are not digitized or available elsewhere.
- Collaborative Networks: Visiting fellows can collaborate with Taiwanese scholars, fostering cross-cultural academic exchange.
- Workshops and Events: Throughout the year, NTL hosts a variety of workshops, lectures, and conferences that fellows are encouraged to attend and participate in, further integrating them into the academic community.
Research Infrastructure and Resources
Beyond books and manuscripts, NTL provides modern research facilities that help scholars maximize their productivity:
- Dedicated Research Spaces: Quiet, well-equipped study areas are reserved for visiting scholars.
- Library Support Staff: Professional staff members assist with archival access, research support, and translation services when necessary.
- Digital Archives: Scholars have access to an expansive array of digital materials and databases, both local and international.
- Proximity to Other Institutions: Located in New Taipei City, NTL is well connected to other academic and cultural institutions in Taiwan, making it easy for scholars to extend their research network and fieldwork opportunities.
Strategic Significance of the Fellowship
The National Taiwan Library Fellowship serves a broader purpose beyond individual academic growth. It is part of Taiwan’s soft diplomacy and cultural outreach, aiming to:
- Promote the global visibility of Taiwanese studies.
- Encourage cross-national academic cooperation.
- Strengthen the body of scholarly work that focuses on Taiwan’s unique position in East Asia and the Pacific.
- Support regional studies in Southeast Asia, thereby cultivating a better understanding of Taiwan’s role in the region.
As such, the National Taiwan Library Fellowship is aligned with Taiwan’s broader goals of becoming a global knowledge hub and a supporter of academic freedom and cultural preservation.
Testimonials and Past Success Stories
Many previous recipients of the NTL Fellowship have gone on to produce highly acclaimed work, including academic journal articles, books, and media content focused on Taiwan’s indigenous cultures, political development, diaspora, linguistic diversity, and regional relations.
Here are some summarized experiences:
- Dr. Emily Ruiz, a historian from Spain, used the fellowship to access rare documents on Taiwan’s post-war reconstruction. She remarked that the access to first-hand archival materials and the support from NTL staff were instrumental in completing her book.
- Michael Tan, a Ph.D. candidate from the Philippines, explored Taiwan’s migrant labor policies. He praised the inclusive environment and how he was able to connect with NGOs and researchers across Taiwan to strengthen his data collection.
- Prof. Linda Hwa, from Malaysia, used the fellowship to study Taiwan’s literary evolution during the Japanese colonial period. She highlighted how the physical resources at NTL and the curated digital archives provided her with data that was unavailable in her home country.
These testimonials underscore the transformative potential of the fellowship.
Application Tips for Aspiring Fellows
If you’re considering applying for the 2025 National Taiwan Library Fellowship, here are some practical tips to boost your chances of success:
- Tailor Your Proposal: Ensure your research proposal aligns with the fellowship’s goals (Taiwan or Southeast Asian Studies). Emphasize how NTL’s resources will specifically help you achieve your research objectives.
- Demonstrate Impact: Show how your project will contribute to academic literature and possibly affect policy, education, or cross-cultural understanding.
- Proof of Institutional Support: A strong letter from your university or institution reflecting support for your research visit can strengthen your application.
- Clarify Your Research Timeline: Provide a realistic and structured timeline for your proposed stay and outcomes.
- Network Early: Reach out to current or past fellows if possible, and consult NTL’s staff with questions during the application process. Demonstrating proactive engagement can leave a good impression.
Conclusion: A Gateway to Academic Growth and Cultural Exchange
The 2025 National Taiwan Library Fellowship for International Scholars is more than just a research grant — it’s a gateway to a deep, meaningful academic and cultural experience. With generous financial support, unparalleled research access, and a welcoming environment, this fellowship represents a unique opportunity for scholars dedicated to the study of Taiwan and Southeast Asia.
Whether you are a seasoned academic or an emerging scholar, the NTL Fellowship offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in the historical, cultural, and social fabrics of Taiwan, engage with top-notch resources, and contribute to a growing body of international scholarship.
As global academia becomes increasingly interconnected, fellowships like this play a vital role in breaking down borders, nurturing intellectual diversity, and reinforcing the power of collaborative knowledge.
For more details and to apply, visit the official NTL fellowship portal: National Taiwan Library – Fellowship Information Page
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply for the National Taiwan Library Fellowship?
Answer:
The fellowship is open to international scholars actively engaged in Taiwan Studies or Southeast Asian Studies within the humanities and social sciences. Eligible applicants include professors, researchers, postdoctoral fellows, doctoral candidates, and academic library personnel affiliated with foreign universities or research institutions. Additionally, scholars recommended by institutions that have an academic cooperation MOU with NTL may also apply, provided their research topic aligns with the fellowship’s focus areas. Applicants currently based in Taiwan for research or studies are not eligible.
2. What kind of financial support does the fellowship provide?
Answer:
The fellowship offers both travel and living expense support:
- Airfare Subsidy: Reimbursement for one economy-class round-trip ticket. Scholars from Northeast and Southeast Asia may receive up to NTD 35,000, while those from other regions may receive up to NTD 60,000.
- Monthly Research Grant: Scholars with a doctoral degree are awarded NTD 60,000/month, while those without a doctorate receive NTD 40,000/month. This stipend supports accommodation, meals, transportation, and research expenses.
3. What is the duration and timing of the fellowship?
Answer:
Fellowship tenure is between 3 to 6 months. Awardees must begin their fellowship between June 1 and June 30, 2025, and the research must be completed within the same calendar year. Extensions into the following year are not permitted, and deferral of the fellowship to another year is not allowed.
4. What are the application requirements?
Answer:
Applicants must submit the following:
- A completed online application form.
- A detailed CV with academic background and publication list.
- A research proposal (maximum three pages) in Chinese or English.
- One letter of recommendation (to be sent directly by the referee).
- An official letter of approval from the applicant’s institution (e.g., department head or dean).
All documents must be submitted by April 13, 2025.
5. What responsibilities do fellows have during and after the National Taiwan Library Fellowship?
Answer:
During the fellowship, scholars are expected to:
- Actively engage in their proposed research using NTL’s resources.
- Participate in academic discussions, seminars, or exchanges hosted by NTL.
After the fellowship, awardees must:
- Submit a final research report to NTL.
- Acknowledge the support of NTL in any resulting publications or academic outputs derived from the fellowship research.
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