Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025

The Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025 is a distinguished academic award created to honor the legacy of Professor Zahid Ali (1888–1958), one of the first modern scholars of Ismaili Studies. This prestigious fellowship is offered by the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) to support established scholars working in the field of Classical Arabic Literature, with a specific focus on research that enhances the understanding of Ismaili thought, heritage, and intellectual traditions.

Held every five years, the Zahid Ali Fellowship provides not just financial assistance, but also scholarly recognition and support, allowing researchers to publish significant works such as academic journal articles, critical editions, or full-length monographs. These works must contribute substantially to the field of Ismaili Studies, with a special emphasis on Arabic texts, manuscripts, and classical literature.

The fellowship is designed to facilitate high-level academic production that may otherwise be hindered by a lack of financial or institutional backing. It encourages applicants from all over the world and fosters a global exchange of knowledge. It is one of the few awards in the humanities that explicitly champions Islamic intellectual heritage, making it a unique opportunity for scholars in this domain.

Name of Organizer

The Institute of Ismaili Studies logo - sponsor of the fellowship

Requirements/Eligibility


To qualify for the Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025, applicants must meet a specific set of criteria designed to ensure that the fellowship goes to scholars with both the expertise and commitment necessary to produce high-quality research:

  • Academic Standing: The applicant must be an internationally recognized scholar or researcher with a proven track record in Classical Arabic Literature or related fields.
  • Research Focus: The project proposed must contribute to Ismaili Studies. This could include topics like Ismaili philosophy, theology, jurisprudence, history, or manuscript studies that draw on Classical Arabic sources.
  • Publication Objective: The fellowship is intended to support academic publications. This includes peer-reviewed journal articles, edited volumes, monographs, or critical editions of Classical Arabic texts.
  • Track Record: Applicants must have prior publications demonstrating expertise in the relevant subject areas. Preference will be given to scholars whose work already shows a connection with Arabic literary and religious traditions.
  • Research Proposal: Each applicant must submit a detailed research proposal (up to 2,000 words) outlining the purpose, scope, and intended outcome of the research. This should include a timeline and publication plan.
  • Application Documents:
    • Cover letter explaining the motivation for applying.
    • Curriculum Vitae (CV) with a list of publications.
    • Sample of previous academic writing (e.g., article or chapter).
    • Research proposal as outlined above.
  • Language Proficiency: Fluency in Classical Arabic is essential. The ability to read and analyze Arabic primary texts must be demonstrated through academic qualifications or previous work.
  • Global Eligibility: The fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities, and no institutional affiliation with the Institute of Ismaili Studies is required.
  • Alignment with IIS Mission: Scholars must show that their work aligns with the goals of the Institute of Ismaili Studies, including promoting a deeper understanding of Ismaili history, doctrines, and literary heritage.
  • Use of Funds: The fellowship amount must be used strictly for the purposes of publication and academic research support. It cannot be used for personal expenses or non-research related costs.

Duration/Stipend

The Zahid Ali Fellowship does not require a fixed residency period or relocation to a specific institution. It is designed to be a flexible award that allows the recipient to complete and publish their research project from anywhere in the world. The stipend is a one-time financial grant of £5,000 (British Pounds Sterling).

This grant is specifically earmarked for activities that directly support the publication process, such as:

  • Manuscript preparation and editing
  • Translation services
  • Indexing and formatting
  • Submission fees for journals
  • Printing costs (in the case of monographs or edited volumes)
  • Copyediting and proofreading

While the fellowship is not renewable, awardees will become part of a broader community of IIS-affiliated scholars and may be invited to contribute to future collaborative projects or events hosted by the Institute.

Deadline

September 30, 2025

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