Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025 – IIS UK (£5,000 Research Grant) : Applications are now open for the 2025 Zahid Ali Fellowship, offered by the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS). Awarded once every five years, this prestigious £5,000 fellowship recognizes an internationally acclaimed scholar in Classical Arabic Literature. The fellowship supports the publication of original research that makes a substantial contribution to the field of Ismaili Studies.
About the Zahid Ali Fellowship
Established in 1997, the Zahid Ali Fellowship commemorates Professor Zahid Ali (1888–1958), a pioneering figure in modern Ismaili historiography. An Oxford graduate and former faculty member at Nizam College in Hyderabad, Professor Zahid Ali authored the first scholarly works on Ismaili history and doctrine grounded in rare primary sources. His influential publications in Urdu, released in 1948 and 1954, continue to serve as foundational texts in the field. The fellowship was founded at the request of his son, Professor Abid Ali, and the Ali family, who also generously donated Professor Zahid Ali’s invaluable collection of Ismaili manuscripts to the Institute of Ismaili Studies.
Degree Level
The IIS UK Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025 (£5,000 Research Grant) is intended for scholars pursuing research at the fellowship level at the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS).
Available Subjects
Following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
The Zahid Ali Fellowship is open to internationally recognized scholars with a strong academic background in Classical Arabic Literature and a demonstrated commitment to original research in the field of Ismaili Studies.
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Possess fluency in classical Arabic texts and literary traditions
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Have a record of scholarly publications or presentations related to Islamic intellectual history or Ismaili heritage
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Submit a well-defined research proposal that will result in a significant publication—such as a monograph, academic article, or translation—advancing the understanding of Ismaili thought, culture, or textual traditions
Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025 – IIS UK (£5,000 Research Grant); Benefits
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Award Value: £5,000
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Award Cycle: Granted once every five years
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Eligible Field: Classical Arabic Literature
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Research Focus: Projects contributing to the field of Ismaili Studies
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Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
Application Procedure
To apply for the Zahid Ali Fellowship 2025, applicants must submit the following documents via email to scholarships@iis.ac.uk:
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A cover letter outlining your interest in the fellowship and your suitability for the award
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A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
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A writing sample, preferably a previously published work
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A research proposal (maximum 2,000 words) detailing the project’s scope, methodology, and its relevance to Ismaili Studies
Deadline: All application materials must be received by 30 September 2025.
Why Apply for the Zahid Ali Fellowship?
The Zahid Ali Fellowship is a prestigious award that offers both recognition and meaningful financial support for scholars working at the intersection of Classical Arabic literature and Ismaili heritage. It presents a unique opportunity to advance original research, engage with the academic community at the Institute of Ismaili Studies, and contribute to the preservation and deepening of Ismaili intellectual traditions.
About the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS)
Based in London, the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) is a globally respected research center committed to the academic exploration of Islamic cultures and societies, with a special focus on Ismaili heritage. The IIS promotes scholarship, education, and public engagement across diverse fields including theology, philosophy, history, art, and literature.
