The ICCROM Fellowship Programme offers senior cultural heritage professionals the opportunity to undertake independent research at the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) under the umbrella of UNESCO in UAE. The programme aims to bring fresh perspectives, facilitate knowledge exchange, and stimulate new research that enriches the global field of heritage conservation. Fellowships are undertaken in 2027 and are open to nationals of ICCROM Member States or those working in organisations based in Member States.
ICCROM Fellowships Facts & Quick Verification Tracker
- Host organisation: ICCROM (Rome headquarters; partial online possible with justification)
- Duration: 3 to 6 months (other lengths may be considered with justification)
- Financial support: None (no stipend or living allowance provided)
- Support provided: Office space, computer workstation, internet, stationery, full access to ICCROM library and archives
- Eligibility: Master’s degree (or higher) in a cultural heritage-related field + at least 10 years of professional experience
- Languages: Good knowledge of English or French required
- Application window: Opens 15 August 2026; closes 15 September 2026
- Official website: iccrom.org/get-involved/fellowships
ICCROM Fellowships Coverage & Requirements Matrix
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Financial support | None (Fellows cover travel, accommodation, insurance, and living costs) |
| Workspace | Office space, computer, internet, stationery provided |
| Library & Archives | Full access to one of the world’s most extensive conservation libraries and archives |
| Duration | 3–6 months |
| Location | ICCROM Headquarters, Rome (or partially online with justification) |
| Degree requirement | Master’s or higher in a cultural heritage-related field |
| Experience | At least 10 years of professional activity in the field |
| Language | Good knowledge of English or French |
| Output | Presentation of research + brief report/feedback |
Official Source & Portal Verification for ICCROM Fellowships
All details must be verified on the official ICCROM website:
https://www.iccrom.org/get-involved/fellowships
The pages on the website include the main Fellowships page, FAQ, and the online application form (available from 15 August 2026). Contact: fellowships@iccrom.org.
The Step-by-Step Roadmap to Apply for ICCROM Fellowships 2027
- Confirm eligibility (Member State nationality/affiliation, qualifications, and experience).
- Develop a clear research proposal aligned with ICCROM’s mission and Strategic Directions.
- Prepare required documents (CV, employer agreement if applicable, three reference letters).
- Complete the online application form (opens 15 August 2026).
- Submit by 15 September 2026.
- Await selection committee decision (notification timeframe varies).
- If selected, arrange travel, visa, accommodation, and insurance; begin fellowship in 2027.
ICCROM Academic Collaboration
Fellows engage with ICCROM staff and other heritage professionals, gaining international insights and building professional networks. Access to the specialised library and archives supports high-level independent research while contributing to the broader conservation community.
Fellowship Duration and Funding Opportunities
Fellowships last 3–6 months (flexible within this range). ICCROM does not provide financial support due to budgetary constraints. Fellows must cover all personal costs (travel, accommodation, living expenses, insurance). ICCROM assists with visa documentation and can provide information on accommodation options.
Focus on Development Through Scientific Research
The programme supports research that advances heritage conservation knowledge, with particular preference in 2026–2027 for topics addressing risk management (including climate change, urbanization, digital transition, and complex crises) and the integration of heritage into broader policy agendas (climate action, sustainable development, education, health and wellbeing).
International Research Partnerships with ICCROM
ICCROM Fellowships foster international exchange among senior professionals, strengthening global collaboration in cultural heritage conservation and contributing to shared knowledge and capacity building across Member States.
ICCROM Fellowship Mission
The mission is to enrich the field of heritage conservation by enabling experienced professionals to pursue focused research, exchange ideas, and generate new perspectives that benefit the international conservation community.
ICCROM Fellowships Research Expectations and Academic Responsibilities
Fellows conduct independent research (no formal supervision by ICCROM staff is provided). At the end of the fellowship, they present their research to staff and external guests and submit a brief report evaluating their experience. Open-access dissemination of findings is encouraged.
ICCROM Fellowships Overview and Academic Purpose
The ICCROM Fellowship is a non-funded research residency for senior cultural heritage professionals. Its purpose is to enable focused study and knowledge generation that advances conservation practice and policy worldwide.
What This Fellowship Offers
- Dedicated time and space for focused research in a leading international organisation.
- Unparalleled access to specialised library and archival resources.
- Opportunity to engage with global experts and expand professional networks.
- Platform to contribute to and influence the international heritage conservation field.
Key Features of the Fellowship
- Independent research residency.
- Flexible duration (3–6 months).
- Access to world-class conservation resources.
- Presentation of findings and contribution to the ICCROM community.
- Preference for research aligned with current Strategic Directions.
Eligible courses at ICCROM Fellowships 2027
This is not a taught programme. It is a research fellowship focused on self-directed study in cultural heritage conservation. Proposals should relate to ICCROM’s mission; priority areas for 2026–2027 include risk management approaches and integrating heritage into broader policy agendas.
Who can Apply for ICCROM Fellowship
Senior professionals (researchers, teachers, or practitioners) specialising in cultural heritage who are nationals of ICCROM Member States or work in organisations based in Member States.
Key Eligibility Requirements
- Master’s degree or higher in a cultural heritage-related field.
- At least 10 years of professional experience in the field.
- Nationality of, or employment in an organisation in, an ICCROM Member State.
- Good knowledge of English or French.
- Research proposal that is feasible within ICCROM’s resources and timeframe.
Study Period and funding
Study period: 3–6 months in 2027 (timing flexible and agreed with ICCROM).
Funding: None provided. Fellows are responsible for all personal expenses. ICCROM supplies workspace and research facilities only.
Proposal Guide for ICCROM Fellowship
A strong ICCROM research proposal is clear, focused, feasible, and relevant. Keep it concise (typically 3–5 pages) and structure it as follows:
Recommended Structure
- Title
Clear and specific. - Background & Research Need
Briefly explain the context and identify the knowledge gap your research will address. - Objectives
State 2–4 precise, achievable research objectives. - Methodology
Outline how you will conduct the research (methods, sources, approach). Show it is realistic within 3–6 months and ICCROM’s resources (library, archives, independent work). - Expected Outcomes & Significance
Describe the anticipated results and how they will advance heritage conservation practice or knowledge. - Dissemination Plan
Explain how findings will be shared (publications, presentations, open access, training, policy input, etc.). - Relevance to ICCROM
Link your topic to ICCROM’s mission and, preferably, to current Strategic Directions (especially risk management/climate-related hazards or integrating heritage into broader policy agendas such as sustainable development, climate action, education, or wellbeing). - Timeline
Provide a simple month-by-month plan for the proposed fellowship period.
Key Tips
- Focus on quality and clarity over length.
- Demonstrate feasibility — ICCROM provides workspace and library access but no supervision or extra funding.
- Highlight why ICCROM is the right place for this research.
- Write in English or French.
- Ensure the proposal shows clear value to the wider conservation community.
Strong proposals address a real gap, produce usable results, and fit comfortably within the time and resources available.
What Past Winners & Student Forums Say
Past Fellows describe the experience as transformative, highlighting expanded professional vision, valuable access to resources, meaningful exchanges with colleagues, and strengthened international networks. Many emphasise the intellectual freedom and the lasting impact on their research and career trajectories.
History About ICCROM under UNESCO in UAE
ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property) is an intergovernmental organisation based in Rome, Italy. Founded in 1956 under the auspices of UNESCO, it works worldwide to promote the conservation of all forms of cultural heritage through training, information, research, cooperation, and advocacy. It maintains one of the most extensive specialised libraries in the conservation field (holdings in over 70 languages) and extensive archives. ICCROM operates from its headquarters in Rome and has a regional office in Sharjah, UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is financial support available?
No. ICCROM does not provide stipends or cover living costs. - Can PhD candidates apply?
Generally for senior professionals with substantial experience (typically 7–10+ years). Doctoral researchers who already meet the experience profile may apply. - Can the fellowship be part-time or split?
Fellows are normally expected to be in residence for a continuous period; limited flexibility may be considered if justified and agreed in advance. - Do I need a visa?
Yes, if required for Italy (or UAE if applicable). ICCROM can assist with documentation, but costs are the Fellow’s responsibility.
Current Application Deadlines:
- Applications open: 15 August 2026
- Applications close: 15 September 2026
- Fellowships undertaken: 2027
Contact Information for Applicants
Fellowship Programme Focal Point
Alison Heritage
Project Manager, Strategic Planning and Research
Email: fellowships@iccrom.org
Address: Via di San Michele, 13, I-00153 Rome, Italy
Fax: +39 06 58 55 33 49
How To Apply
- Prepare an up-to-date CV (abridged version focusing on key achievements is acceptable).
- Obtain confirmation of employer agreement (if applicable).
- Secure three letters of reference from people with direct knowledge of your work.
- Develop a clear research proposal.
- Complete the online application form (available from 15 August 2026) and upload the required digital files (PDF, DOC, etc., max 3 MB each).
- Submit by 15 September 2026.
If the online form cannot be used, contact the focal point for alternative submission arrangements. All materials must be received by the deadline. There is no application fee. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted. You can take a look at How to Verify Scholarships, Fellowships, Grants, and Financial Aid Funding. You can also learn How to Avoid Scholarship Scams. Bear in mind that fellows are expected to undertake independent research and cannot request to be supervised by an ICCROM staff member.
Finally, you can Apply for ICCROM Fellowships under UNESCO for leaders of tomorrow.
Concluding Remarks
The ICCROM Fellowship 2027 offers experienced cultural heritage professionals a unique opportunity for focused research, international exchange, and access to outstanding specialised resources. While it does not provide financial support, the intellectual and professional environment can significantly advance both individual research and the broader conservation field. Prospective applicants should carefully review the official website, ensure alignment with eligibility and priority themes, and submit a strong, feasible proposal by 15 September 2026.