National Law School Of India University (NLSIU) Research Fellowships 2026 Opportunity For Global Scholars -

Introduction to the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) Research Fellowships

The National Law School of India University (NLSIU) is opening applications for its prestigious Research Fellowships Program for the 2025–2026 academic year. This program is more than just a fellowship opportunity—it is a platform to contribute to high-impact, interdisciplinary research that addresses pressing global issues in law, governance, and public policy.

Why This Fellowship Matters

In today’s interconnected world, tackling issues like climate change, governance reform, and technological disruption requires collaboration across disciplines and borders. The NLSIU Research Fellowship is designed to facilitate exactly that—bringing together bright minds from around the globe to conduct research that informs lawmaking, shapes public policy, and strengthens institutions.

By joining this fellowship, participants are not only advancing their own academic and professional goals but also contributing to solutions that have a real-world impact.

Application Timeline

The application process follows a rolling system, with reviews conducted three times each year. Interested candidates can submit applications at any time, but they will be evaluated according to the following review deadlines:

First Review: Apply by 15 September 2025 (Fellowship start: December 2025 – August 2026)
Second Review: Apply by 15 January 2026 (Fellowship start: April – December 2026)
Third Review: Apply by 15 May 2026 (Fellowship start: August 2026 – April 2027)

This flexible schedule ensures applicants have multiple chances to submit their materials and plan their research engagements.

About the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) Research Fellowships

The NLSIU Research Fellowships aim to empower scholars, researchers, and policy practitioners to generate knowledge and drive change. The program builds on NLSIU’s Grand Challenges Model, as well as its established Academic Fellowship initiative, to promote interdisciplinary research and collaboration. Fellows work closely with NLSIU faculty, participate in global research networks, and contribute to innovative scholarship designed to influence both policy and practice.

Eligible Fields

Fellows will engage with critical themes shaping the twenty-first century. Research opportunities are available in the following areas:

Climate Justice – Advancing equity and resilience in environmental governance.
Labour & Work – Exploring the future of employment, workers’ rights, and economic justice.
State Capacity & Reform – Strengthening institutions and governance systems.
Law & Technology – Examining legal responses to rapid technological change.
Access to Justice & Legal Reform – Improving legal systems to ensure fairness and accountability.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to a diverse pool of applicants, reflecting different stages of academic and professional careers:

Fresh graduates and postgraduates in law, social sciences, public policy, and related fields with 0–3 years of experience.
Early-career professionals with 2–3 years of experience in relevant areas.
PhD candidates and recent PhD holders (including postdoctoral researchers within the last three years).
Senior scholars with a PhD and 10+ years of teaching or professional experience.
Eminent scholars and distinguished professionals—by invitation only—for the University Research and Distinguished Fellowships.

This multi-tiered structure ensures that opportunities exist for emerging researchers as well as experienced academics who want to contribute at the highest levels.

Selection Criteria

Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process designed to match their expertise with NLSIU’s research priorities:

Open call applications are shortlisted and followed by an interview with a selection committee led by the Dean (Research).
Invitation-based fellowships are reserved for senior or distinguished scholars whose work aligns closely with NLSIU’s long-term research agenda.

Benefits of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) Research Fellowships

The NLSIU Research Fellowship offers far more than academic prestige. Successful candidates will enjoy:

Opportunities to publish research outputs in peer-reviewed journals, policy briefs, and NLSIU’s own platforms.
Full access to NLSIU’s library resources, digital databases, academic workshops, and expert seminars.
Collaboration with leading NLSIU faculty members and global research partners.
Teaching opportunities for certain categories of fellows, allowing for academic engagement and mentorship.
Professional development support, including career guidance and structured mentorship.

This comprehensive support system equips fellows to generate impactful scholarship while building strong professional networks.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via the NLSIU Fellowship webpage under the appropriate category. Candidates should ensure they provide all required documentation as outlined in the official call. Since applications are accepted on a rolling basis, applicants are encouraged to submit early to be considered for their preferred review cycle.