University of Melbourne Law School Offers Fully Funded Visiting Fellowship for Statelessness Research The University of Melbourne Law School is now accepting applications for its fully funded Visiting Fellowship program, focusing on research related to statelessness. Hosted by the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness, the two-month fellowship offers a significant opportunity for academics and professionals to delve into the complexities surrounding individuals not recognized as nationals by any country. The fellowship, valued at AUD$6,000, covers travel and accommodation costs in Melbourne. The program is open to applicants from around the world, encouraging diverse perspectives on this critical legal and humanitarian issue. The deadline for applications is November 30, 2025, with the fellowship period scheduled between July and November 2026.

Fellowship Details and Benefits

Host Country: Australia Location: University of Melbourne Duration: 2 Months Funding: Fully Funded (AUD$6,000) Deadline: November 30, 2025

Financial Support The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, including:

Return airfare to Melbourne Accommodation during the fellowship period Workspace at the University of Melbourne Law School Access to the University's library and computer resources

Focus on Statelessness The fellowship's central theme is statelessness, a multifaceted issue with profound implications for human rights and international law. The Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness actively promotes research and advocacy to address this global challenge. The Centre's work aligns with the broader international efforts to implement the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness. Dr. Jane McAdam, a leading expert in refugee law and statelessness at the University of New South Wales, notes, "Fellowships like this are crucial for fostering innovative research and policy solutions to address the pressing issue of statelessness. By bringing together scholars and practitioners from diverse backgrounds, the University of Melbourne is contributing significantly to global efforts to protect stateless individuals."

Eligibility Criteria The fellowship welcomes applications from a wide range of individuals, including:

Academics: From early-career (postdoctoral) researchers to tenured professors. Non-academic professionals: Individuals with applied research projects relevant to statelessness are encouraged to apply. Researchers with lived experience of statelessness: Their unique insights are highly valued.

All applicants must demonstrate a clear interest in statelessness and propose work relevant to the Centre's mission.

Required Documents Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

Curriculum Vitae List of publications (if applicable) Research plan outlining the proposed work during the fellowship Proposed dates of the visit (between July and November 2026) One letter of reference (or letter of support for non-academic visitors)

Application Process To apply, candidates should submit their application materials to law-statelessness@unimelb.edu.au with the subject line "Visiting Fellowship Application."

Historical and Current Context of Statelessness Statelessness has been a persistent issue throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, often arising from state succession, discriminatory laws, and administrative oversights. The aftermath of World War I and the collapse of empires led to significant displacement and statelessness, prompting the initial international efforts to address the problem. Today, statelessness continues to affect millions worldwide, hindering access to basic rights such as education, healthcare, and employment. Professor Michelle Foster, Director of the International Refugee Law Research Programme at the University of Melbourne, emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes of statelessness. "Addressing statelessness requires a multi-faceted approach, including legal reforms, birth registration programs, and international cooperation. This fellowship provides a valuable platform for researchers to contribute to these efforts by generating evidence-based solutions." The University of Melbourne Law School Visiting Fellowship offers a vital opportunity for researchers and practitioners to contribute to the growing body of knowledge and advocacy efforts aimed at eradicating statelessness and protecting the rights of stateless individuals globally.