The Swiss Institute of Comparative Law (SICL) is pleased to announce the van Calker scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic year. These prestigious scholarships are designed to support Swiss and foreign researchers in advancing their scientific work in the fields of comparative law, foreign law, and international law. Applications are now open, offering researchers a unique opportunity to conduct in-depth studies at the SICL in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The scholarship program aim to foster cutting-edge research by providing financial support and access to the SICL’s exceptional library resources. The program is open to researchers worldwide, with a special emphasis on encouraging applications from individuals who face limited funding and opportunities, thereby promoting diversity and inclusion in legal scholarship.
Application Process
Applicants must submit the following documents in PDF format to Marie-Laure Lauria at no later than August 15th of the year prior to the intended stay:
- Letter of Motivation (max. 1 page): Explain your objectives, expectations, and how the SICL stay will enhance your research, with specific reference to the Institute’s library resources.
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages): Include your academic background, current position, and list of publications.
- Research Project (max. 2 pages): Provide a detailed proposal outlining your research focus, central questions, challenges, and aspects to be explored during the stay.
- Letter of Recommendation: Required for doctoral and post-doctoral candidates (preferably from a research supervisor); optional for other applicants.
- Application Form: Complete the online form at https://forms.gle/v9MT6JyVFyoZTsmM7 (automatically sent upon submission).
Documents may be submitted in French, German, English, or Italian. Incomplete applications will not be considered.