Apply now for SISECSE 2026 \u2013 the Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe. This two-week residential fellowship, taking place in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria, from June 3\u201319, 2026, offers scholars a unique opportunity to focus on their research, engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, and participate in immersive discussions on autonomy, institutions, and transnational networks. SISECSE 2026 provides full travel and accommodation support, access to archives and cultural resources, and the chance to build meaningful academic connections across North America and East Central and Southeastern Europe. Deadline for applications: December 2, 2025.<\/p>\n
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The Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026 (SISECSE)<\/strong> is a prestigious two-week residential workshop organized by the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS)<\/strong> in partnership with the Centre for Advanced Study Sofia (CAS)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Taking place in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria from June 3 to June 19, 2026<\/strong>, this fellowship program brings together leading scholars from North America and Eastern Europe to advance their research in an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udc49 Apply here via ACLS<\/a><\/p>\n The Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026<\/strong> offers:<\/p>\n Full coverage of travel, accommodation, and per diem expenses<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Dedicated time and space for research and writing.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Opportunities for local fieldwork<\/strong> including archival research, site surveys, and interviews.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Participation in immersive thematic discussions<\/strong> on \u201cAutonomy, Institutions, and Transnational Networks.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Networking with top scholars and building long-term academic connections<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Duration:<\/strong> Two weeks (June 3\u201319, 2026).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Stipend & Coverage:<\/strong> Travel, lodging, and daily expenses provided.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Fieldwork:<\/strong> Optional local research in Bulgaria.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Activities:<\/strong> Group seminar, interdisciplinary discussions, and at least one weekend trip.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The competition is open to:<\/p>\n Scholars in humanities or social sciences<\/strong> with a PhD<\/strong> (or equivalent professional experience).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Applicants affiliated with an academic or cultural institution in North America<\/strong> (Canada, US, Mexico) or East Central and Southeastern Europe<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Researchers focused on the following countries: Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Hungary, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n There are no citizenship restrictions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Applicants must submit through the ACLS Online Fellowship and Grant Administration System<\/strong>:<\/p>\n Completed application form.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Research essay (max. 4 pages).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Bibliography and publication list.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Statement of interest in the institute (max. 2 pages).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Optional supporting images, data, or scores.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n \ud83d\udc49 Access the full guidelines and apply here<\/a><\/p>\n Applications will be reviewed on:<\/p>\n Significance of the research topic.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Innovation and methodology.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Contribution to East Central and Southeastern European studies.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Feasibility of completion.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Applicant\u2019s track record and potential impact.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Application deadline:<\/strong> December 2, 2025 at 9:00 PM EST.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Residency dates:<\/strong> June 3\u201319, 2026 in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Interested scholars should prepare their proposals and submit all materials online: For questions, email sisecse@acls.org<\/a><\/strong> after reviewing the FAQ page<\/a>.<\/p>\n The Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026<\/strong> is more than a fellowship\u2014it\u2019s an opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, cross-cultural exchange, and professional growth. Scholars dedicated to understanding the complex histories, cultures, and institutions of the region are strongly encouraged to apply. Participants will also benefit from mentorship by leading experts, collaborative seminars, and fieldwork opportunities that enrich their projects. Beyond advancing individual research, SISECSE 2026 fosters lasting academic networks and promotes dialogue across borders, ensuring a transformative experience with long-term impact.<\/p>\n
\nWhy Apply for This Fellowship?<\/h2>\n
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\nProgram Details and Benefits<\/h2>\n
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\nEligibility Criteria<\/h2>\n
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\nApplication Guidelines<\/h2>\n
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\nEvaluation Criteria<\/h2>\n
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\nKey Dates and Deadline<\/h2>\n
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\nHow to Apply<\/h2>\n
\ud83d\udc49 Apply for the Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe 2026<\/a><\/p>\n
\nFinal Thoughts<\/h2>\n