Join Our What’sApp Channel for updates, guidance, and tips on the application process.IIS UK Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025 (£5,000 Research Grant)
The Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025, offered by the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) in the UK, is a distinguished academic award presented once every five years. This prestigious fellowship provides a research grant of £5,000 to support the publication of original scholarly work in Ismaili Studies, particularly within the field of Classical Arabic Literature.
The fellowship is named in honor of Professor Zahid Ali (1888–1958), a pioneer in the academic study of Ismaili history. He was the first to publish modern, research-based works on Ismaili doctrines using rare primary sources, with his landmark books released in 1948 and 1954.
Established in 1997 at the request of his son, Professor Abid Ali, the fellowship also commemorates the family’s donation of Professor Zahid Ali’s rare Ismaili manuscript collection to the Institute.
Host Institution: The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), United Kingdom
Scholarship Type: Fellowship (Partial Funding)
Funding Amount: £5,000
Eligible Nationalities: Open to all international applicants
Field of Study: Classical Arabic Literature, Ismaili Studies
Application Deadline: September 30, 2025
Fellowship Details
Award Amount: £5,000
Award Frequency: Once every five years
Focus Area: Original research leading to publication (monograph, academic article, or translation)
Relevant Discipline: Classical Arabic Literature connected to Ismaili Studies
Eligibility Criteria
The Zahid Ali Fellowship is open to scholars of any nationality who meet the following criteria:
Must be an internationally recognized expert in Classical Arabic Literature.
Should have a track record of scholarly work related to Islamic intellectual history or Ismaili traditions.
Must submit a research proposal that contributes to the understanding of Ismaili thought, culture, or textual traditions.
Fluency in Classical Arabic is essential.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents by email to scholarships@iis.ac.uk
Cover Letter: Detailing interest and suitability for the fellowship.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A complete and updated resume.
Writing Sample: Preferably a previously published scholarly work.
Research Proposal: A well-structured document (max. 2,000 words) outlining the project scope, methodology, and its relevance to Ismaili Studies.
Application Deadline: All materials must be submitted by 30 September 2025.
Why Apply?
The Zahid Ali Fellowship is more than just a grant—it’s a prestigious recognition in the field of Ismaili scholarship. It enables selected fellows to:
Receive dedicated funding to support impactful research.
Gain recognition for academic excellence.
Engage with the IIS scholarly community.
Contribute to the preservation and evolution of Ismaili heritage and scholarship.
About the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS)
Located in London, the Institute of Ismaili Studies is a globally respected research institution dedicated to the study of Islamic cultures, with a focus on Ismaili thought. IIS promotes academic excellence through research, publications, and educational programs in fields such as theology, philosophy, literature, and history.
FAQs
Who can apply for the Zahid Ali Fellowship?
Scholars from any country with expertise in Classical Arabic Literature and a focus on Ismaili Studies can apply.
What kind of research projects are eligible?
Projects must be original, well-researched, and contribute meaningfully to the academic study of Ismaili thought, culture, or texts. Acceptable outputs include academic articles, translations, or monographs.
Is the fellowship renewable or awarded more than once?
No. The Zahid Ali Fellowship is awarded once every five years and is not renewable.
Can students apply for this fellowship?
No. This opportunity is reserved for established scholars with an existing academic track record.
What is the mode of submission?
All applications must be submitted via email to scholarships@iis.ac.uk.
