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.
The Swiss Institute of Comparative Law (SICL), located in Lausanne, is a leading research center dedicated to the study and comparison of legal systems around the world. Established in 1978, the SICL provides expert legal analysis, supports legislative work, and assists courts, public authorities, and private entities with comparative legal information.
Application Deadline: 15th August
Brief Description
- University or Organization: Swiss Institute of Comparative Law (SICL)
- Department: N/A
- Course Level: Research-based (open to doctoral, post-doctoral, and independent researchers)
- Award: CHF 1,500 per month, plus accommodation
- Access Mode: Online application submission
- Number of Awards: Several (exact number not specified)
- Nationality: Open to Swiss and foreign researchers from all countries
- The award can be taken in: Lausanne, Switzerland
Eligibility
- Eligible Countries: All countries worldwide
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship supports research in comparative law, foreign law, and international law, as facilitated by the SICL’s resources.
- Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Swiss or foreign researcher engaged in scientific work related to comparative law, foreign law, or international law.
- Submit a complete application by the deadline of August 15th of the year preceding the intended stay.
- Demonstrate how the SICL’s library resources will specifically contribute to their research project.
- Preference is given to researchers with limited funding opportunities and those under-represented in similar programs.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents in PDF format to Marie-Laure Lauria at isdc@unil.ch 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 forms.gle/v9MT6JyVFyoZTsmM7 (automatically sent upon submission).
Documents may be submitted in French, German, English, or Italian. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Benefits
- Monthly stipend of CHF 1,500 to cover living expenses.
- Free accommodation provided by the SICL during the stay.
- Access to a reserved table in the SICL library and personalized support from legal specialists and librarians.
- Opportunity to present a lecture and engage with the Institute’s academic community.
- Upon request, an official invitation letter to assist with administrative procedures.