The University of Zurich Center for Eastern European Studies offers a four-month residential fellowship for scholars researching Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus or Central Asia. Funding includes travel, health insurance, visa support and a living stipend.
The Center for Eastern European Studies (CEES) at the University of Zurich offers a residential fellowship programme for scholars working on politically relevant research related to Russia, Eastern Europe and Eurasia in the social sciences and humanities.
The programme is designed to support scholars pursuing their own independent research while participating in the academic life of CEES in Zurich.
A typical fellowship lasts four months, or one academic semester, and includes financial and practical support such as:
- Travel
- Health insurance
- Visa support
- A stipend for living expenses
- Workspace
- Library access
- Assistance with finding housing in the Zurich area
The programme generally starts at the beginning of each university semester, around mid-September or mid-February.
CEES also states that calls for applications are normally launched twice a year, and the Fellowship Program page currently links to a Spring 2027 Call for Applications.
CEES Fellowship Spring 2027 at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | CEES Fellowship Program |
| Institution | University of Zurich |
| Centre | Center for Eastern European Studies |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Typical Duration | 4 months / one semester |
| Format | Residential |
| Fields | Social Sciences and Humanities |
| Research Focus | Russia, Eastern Europe, Caucasus, Central Asia |
| Target Group | Scholars, with priority to early-career researchers |
| International Applicants | Welcomed |
| Regional Preference | Residents of Russia, Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia |
| Travel Funding | Included |
| Health Insurance | Included |
| Visa Support | Included |
| Living Stipend | Included |
| Workspace | Provided |
| Library Access | Provided |
| Housing | CEES assists with finding accommodation |
| Typical Starts | Mid-September and mid-February |
| Calls | Usually twice per year |
| Spring 2027 Call | Listed on the CEES Fellowship Program page |
What Is the CEES Fellowship Program?
The CEES Fellowship Program is run by the Center for Eastern European Studies at the University of Zurich.
CEES describes itself as an interdisciplinary centre focused on the former socialist states of Eastern Europe and the countries of the post-Soviet space.
Its activities include:
- Research
- Teaching
- Publications
- Public events
- Workshops
- Academic discussion
- Media engagement
- Expertise for policymakers and business leaders
The fellowship programme was created to strengthen knowledge, build connections with scholars and institutions, and encourage interdisciplinary thinking on Russia, Eastern Europe and Eurasia.
What Is the Main Purpose of the Fellowship?
The programme supports scholars who want to conduct individual research projects and engage in academic exchange on politically relevant topics related to:
- Russia
- Eastern Europe
- Eurasia
The fellowship is specifically framed around research in the:
- Social sciences
- Humanities
The programme aims not only to support research during the residency itself, but also to help build academic relationships and professional connections that continue beyond the fellowship period.
How Long Is the Fellowship?
The CEES Fellowship is typically:
Four months long
or:
One academic semester.
The programme is residential, meaning fellows are expected to carry out their research while based in Zurich.
This is important because the fellowship is not presented as a remote research grant.
When Does the Fellowship Start?
CEES states that the programme generally begins at the start of each academic semester.
Typical start periods are:
- Mid-September
- Mid-February
This aligns with the Centre’s practice of launching calls twice a year.
For the Spring 2027 cycle, the relevant start would normally be associated with the February semester intake.
Applicants should rely on the actual Spring 2027 call for the exact programme dates.
What Does the Fellowship Fund?
CEES provides several forms of financial and practical support.
Funding includes:
- Travel
- Health insurance
- Visa support
- Stipend for living expenses
The living stipend applies during the period of stay, which is usually up to four months.
The supplied programme overview does not state the exact cash value of the stipend.
Therefore, it would be inaccurate to publish a specific monthly amount unless the Spring 2027 call provides one.
Does the Fellowship Cover Travel?
Yes.
Travel is explicitly included in the fellowship funding package.
The general Fellowship Program page does not state a universal airfare cap, reimbursement limit or booking procedure.
Those details should be taken from the specific call or award documentation.
Is Health Insurance Included?
Yes.
Health insurance is included in the funding package.
This is especially relevant for international fellows temporarily relocating to Switzerland.
Is Visa Support Provided?
Yes.
CEES includes visa support as part of the programme.
However, visa support should not automatically be interpreted as a guarantee that every visa application will be approved.
Applicants should still comply with the applicable Swiss immigration requirements.
Is There a Living Stipend?
Yes.
The programme includes a stipend for living expenses during the fellowship period.
The source describes the period of stay as:
Usually up to four months.
The exact stipend amount is not provided in the supplied programme overview.
Is Housing Included?
CEES does not state that housing itself is fully paid as part of the general programme description.
Instead, the Centre says that it will:
Help the Fellow with finding housing in the Zurich area.
This distinction is important.
Applicants should not assume that CEES automatically pays the entire rent unless the current call specifically says so.
What Facilities Do Fellows Receive?
In addition to financial support, fellows receive:
- Access to relevant libraries
- Access to an interdisciplinary academic community
- Workspace
- Other necessary facilities at CEES
These resources are intended to help fellows conduct their independent research effectively during the residency.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to people interested in historical and/or contemporary research relating to:
- Russia
- Eastern Europe
- Caucasus
- Central Asia
Research can be in any discipline within:
- Social sciences
- Humanities
The programme therefore has a broad interdisciplinary scope.
Are Early-Career Researchers Eligible?
Yes.
CEES states that priority is given to scholars in the early stage of their careers.
This makes the programme particularly relevant to emerging researchers who already have an academic research project but are still establishing their scholarly careers.
The general page does not provide a precise definition of “early stage.”
Applicants should therefore consult the Spring 2027 call for any specific career-stage requirements.
Can Established Scholars Apply?
The programme is not described as exclusively limited to early-career researchers.
However, early-career scholars receive priority.
This means more experienced academics may potentially be eligible, depending on the specific call, but should not assume they receive the same preference.
Which Research Topics Are Eligible?
The fellowship supports historical and/or contemporary topics involving:
- Russia
- Eastern Europe
- The Caucasus
- Central Asia
The project should fall within the social sciences or humanities.
The exact research priorities can vary between calls.
CEES states that its directorate defines the research priorities for each application round.
Applicants should therefore tailor their proposal to the priorities identified in the Spring 2027 Call for Applications rather than relying only on the general programme description.
Why the Current Call Matters
The general Fellowship Program page explains the permanent structure of the programme.
However, the actual call for applications determines details such as:
- Research priorities
- Specific eligibility requirements
- Application requirements
- Deadline
- Selection criteria
- Exact fellowship dates
- Possibly the stipend amount
For this reason, applicants should treat the Spring 2027 call as the most authoritative source for the current cycle.
Are International Applicants Eligible?
Yes.
CEES states:
Applicants from around the world are welcome.
This makes the programme internationally accessible in principle.
However, there is a clear regional preference.
Which Applicants Receive Preference?
CEES says preference is given to scholars who are residents of countries falling within its regional focus.
These areas include:
- Russia
- Eastern Europe
- Caucasus
- Central Asia
This means an applicant from outside the region may still apply, but scholars residing in these regions may receive preference.
Does Nationality Matter?
The general programme description uses residence rather than citizenship when discussing regional preference.
Therefore, it would be inaccurate to turn that preference into a strict nationality requirement without support from the specific call.
Applicants should use the Spring 2027 call to confirm whether any citizenship or residence conditions apply to that particular round.
What Are Fellows Expected to Do?
The fellowship is not simply a funded stay in Zurich.
Fellows have several academic responsibilities.
They are expected to:
- Conduct their independent research while in residence
- Participate actively in CEES scholarly activities
- Engage with the interdisciplinary CEES community
- Deliver a lecture, seminar or workshop
- Publish their findings in a CEES publication
These responsibilities make the programme highly participatory.
Independent Research
The core of the fellowship is the fellow’s own research project.
Applicants should therefore have a clear, well-developed project that can realistically be advanced during a four-month residency.
A vague project concept is unlikely to be as competitive as a focused research plan.
Participation in CEES Academic Life
Fellows are expected to engage actively in the scholarly activities of CEES.
This may include interaction with:
- Researchers
- Faculty
- Students
- Visiting scholars
- Public events
- Workshops
- Academic discussions
The residency is therefore designed as an exchange environment rather than an isolated research visit.
Lecture, Seminar or Workshop
Each fellow is expected to hold a:
- Lecture
- Seminar
- Workshop
on their research topic.
The event is organized by CEES.
Applicants should therefore be prepared to communicate their research clearly to an academic audience.
Publication Requirement
The fellow is also expected to publish research findings in a CEES publication.
This means the fellowship is designed to generate a visible scholarly output rather than only provide private research time.
Applicants should consider how their project could lead to a publishable result within or shortly after the fellowship period.
What Makes a Strong CEES Fellowship Proposal?
A strong application should make several things clear.
Regional Relevance
The research should have a meaningful connection to:
- Russia
- Eastern Europe
- Caucasus
- Central Asia
Academic Relevance
The project should contribute to social-science or humanities research.
Political Relevance
The programme specifically refers to politically relevant themes.
Applicants should therefore explain why the proposed topic matters within contemporary or historical debates.
Connection to CEES Priorities
Research priorities vary by call.
Applicants should explicitly connect their project to the priorities stated in the Spring 2027 call.
Feasible Four-Month Plan
A fellowship proposal should demonstrate what can realistically be achieved during one semester.
Academic Contribution
Applicants should explain what new knowledge, interpretation or evidence the project will contribute.
Possible Relevant Disciplines
Because CEES accepts disciplines within the social sciences and humanities, the fellowship may potentially be relevant to scholars working in areas such as:
- Political science
- International relations
- History
- Sociology
- Economics
- Anthropology
- Cultural studies
- Area studies
- Security studies
- Media studies
- Law
- Migration studies
- Public policy
- Political economy
This list is illustrative rather than an official closed list.
The exact call should determine whether a specific project is suitable.
Is the Fellowship Fully Funded?
The safest description is that CEES provides a funded residential fellowship with several major costs covered or supported.
The package includes:
- Travel
- Health insurance
- Visa support
- Living stipend
However, the general page does not state that every personal cost incurred during the four-month stay is fully covered.
It also does not state that housing is fully paid.
Therefore, describing the programme as “fully funded” without qualification may overstate the source.
CEES Visiting Scholars Program
CEES also offers a separate Visiting Scholars Program.
This option is for scholars who already have outside funding.
These scholars may apply to be appointed as:
Unpaid Visiting Scholars.
They typically obtain their living stipend from:
- Their home university
- Another sponsor
How Is the Visiting Scholars Program Different?
The main difference is funding.
CEES Visiting Scholars do not receive the fellowship funding package from CEES.
However, with the exception of funding, they:
- Receive the same benefits
- Have the same responsibilities
- Are selected according to the same criteria
This means scholars who already have external financial support may still be able to spend a research period at CEES.
Is the Visiting Scholars Program Paid?
No.
The programme description explicitly identifies these appointments as:
Unpaid visiting scholars.
Applicants therefore need external financial support.
How Often Are Calls Launched?
CEES says fellowship calls are launched:
Twice a year.
This corresponds with the two semester starts:
- Mid-February
- Mid-September
Researchers who miss one application cycle may therefore have another opportunity later, although research priorities can change between calls.
Application Deadline for Spring 2027
The general programme page supplied here does not state the Spring 2027 application deadline.
It only links to the:
Call for Applications Spring 2027.
Therefore, the deadline should not be invented.
Applicants should consult that current call before applying.
How to Apply
The general programme page does not provide a complete Spring 2027 application checklist.
A sensible process is:
- Open the Spring 2027 Call for Applications.
- Confirm the current research priorities.
- Review eligibility requirements.
- Check the application deadline.
- Review required documentation.
- Prepare the research proposal.
- Submit through the method stated in the call.
Applicants should follow the current call rather than older fellowship announcements.
Documents You May Need
The supplied general page does not list mandatory application documents.
Therefore, it would be inappropriate to claim that every applicant must provide a specific set of documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters or degree certificates unless the Spring 2027 call confirms them.
Researchers should prepare the documents requested in the current call only.
How Competitive Is the CEES Fellowship?
The general programme description does not provide:
- Number of fellowships per round
- Number of applications received
- Acceptance rate
- Number of fellows selected
No reliable competitiveness percentage can therefore be calculated from this source.
Applicants should nevertheless expect academic quality, project relevance and alignment with CEES priorities to matter in the selection process.
Application Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring the Current Research Priorities
CEES defines priorities for each application cycle.
A strong project that does not fit the current call may still be unsuccessful.
Treating the Fellowship as Remote
The fellowship is normally residential in Zurich.
Assuming Housing Is Fully Paid
CEES helps fellows find housing, but the general page does not say rent is fully covered.
Inventing a Stipend Amount
A living stipend is included, but no amount is stated in the supplied source.
Assuming Every International Applicant Receives Equal Preference
Worldwide applicants are welcomed, but regional residents receive preference.
Ignoring Fellowship Responsibilities
Fellows are expected to participate actively, give an academic event and publish findings.
Using an Old Call
Because research priorities and requirements can change, applicants should use the Spring 2027 call.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CEES Fellowship Program?
It is a University of Zurich residential research fellowship for scholars working on Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus or Central Asia in the social sciences and humanities.
How long is the fellowship?
Typically four months, equivalent to one academic semester.
Where is the fellowship based?
At the Center for Eastern European Studies, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
Is the CEES Fellowship remote?
No. It is normally a residential fellowship.
What does the fellowship cover?
The general programme states that funding includes:
- Travel
- Health insurance
- Visa support
- Living stipend
Is accommodation included?
CEES helps the fellow find housing in the Zurich area, but the supplied page does not state that accommodation costs are fully covered.
Who can apply?
Scholars working on historical or contemporary topics involving Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus or Central Asia within the social sciences or humanities.
Are early-career researchers eligible?
Yes. They are specifically given priority.
Can researchers outside Europe apply?
Yes. CEES welcomes applicants from around the world.
Who receives preference?
Preference is given to scholars residing in Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia.
What are fellows expected to do?
They are expected to conduct their independent research, participate in CEES academic activities, deliver a lecture, seminar or workshop, and publish their findings in a CEES publication.
When does the fellowship begin?
Typically in mid-February or mid-September.
How often are calls published?
Usually twice a year.
Is there a Spring 2027 call?
Yes. The CEES Fellowship Program page currently lists a Call for Applications Spring 2027.
What is the Spring 2027 deadline?
The supplied general programme page does not provide the deadline. Applicants should consult the current Spring 2027 call.
Does CEES offer a Visiting Scholars Program?
Yes. Scholars with external funding can apply as unpaid visiting scholars.
Do Visiting Scholars receive CEES funding?
No. They typically obtain their living support from their home institution or another sponsor.
Final Thoughts
The University of Zurich CEES Fellowship Program offers a valuable opportunity for scholars conducting research on Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia.
The programme is particularly attractive for researchers in the social sciences and humanities who want dedicated time in Zurich to advance an independent project while participating in a strong interdisciplinary academic environment.
A typical fellowship lasts four months and provides support for travel, health insurance, visa arrangements and living expenses, along with library access, workspace and assistance finding housing.
The programme is international, and applications are welcomed from around the world. However, CEES gives preference to scholars residing in the regions at the centre of its research mission, and it also prioritizes researchers at an early stage of their careers.
The Fellowship Program page currently links to a Spring 2027 Call for Applications. Prospective applicants should use that call to confirm the exact research priorities, eligibility rules, deadline and application documents for the current round.
Because the supplied programme overview does not state an exact stipend amount or Spring 2027 deadline, these details should not be guessed or copied from previous calls.
SEO Keywords
CEES Fellowship Spring 2027, University of Zurich Fellowship 2027, University of Zurich research fellowship, CEES Fellowship Program, Switzerland research fellowship 2027, Zurich fellowship for researchers, Eastern Europe research fellowship, Russia research fellowship 2027, Eurasia research fellowship, Caucasus research fellowship, Central Asia research fellowship, social sciences fellowship Switzerland, humanities fellowship Switzerland, early career research fellowship 2027, funded fellowship University of Zurich, research fellowship with stipend Switzerland, fellowship with travel and visa support, CEES Spring 2027 application, University of Zurich visiting fellowship, academic fellowship Zurich, Eastern European studies fellowship, Eurasian studies funding, political science fellowship 2027, international relations fellowship Switzerland, humanities research opportunities 2027, social science research opportunities 2027, international research fellowship Switzerland, University of Zurich CEES fellowship, residential fellowship Switzerland, funded academic fellowship 2027
