A hub for China Studies
based in Tokyo
Established in 2026, Scholars’ House is a hub for China Studies based in Tokyo. The institution is founded to address a widening gap in the field: at a time when the study of China and its relations with the world is of heightened importance, scholarly research on the subject faces a widening gap between global attention and real scholarly depth.
As a non-profit institution, Scholars’ House is independent and globally open. With deep collaboration to start with the University of Tokyo and Harvard University, it aims to connects international scholars of China and related issues, fosters sustained exchange, and builds unique research resources. Partnering with leading research hubs worldwide, it strengthens collaboration and the knowledge infrastructure across fields, especially those in Humanities and Social Sciences.
Vision
A future where China studies remains rigorous, internationally connected, and responsive to reality—supported by an open, resilient ecosystem in which scholars can thrive, collaborate, and make enduring contributions.
Mission
The central mission of the Scholars’ House is to promote scholarly exchange and enable more research on China and its relations with the world—by providing a base where scholars can access resources, data, and networks unavailable elsewhere.
Our Team
David Y. Yang
Yvonne P.L. Lui Professor, Department of Economics, Harvard University Director, Center for History and Economics, Harvard University
davidyang@scholarshouse.orgdavidyyang.com
Martin Fackler
Senior journalist, author and analyst
martinfackler@scholarshouse.orgStarting from summer 2026, Scholars’ House offers residential fellowships or both Distinguished Visiting Scholars and Early Career Researchers concerning contemporary China across social science disciplines. The residential fellowship program seeks outstanding candidates and is looking for truly extraordinary scholars.
Both programs are open to candidates of all nationalities conducting social science research on contemporary China. Eligible fields include, but are not limited to, economics, political science, sociology, anthropology, media studies, urban studies, human geography, law, and related interdisciplinary studies.
Distinguished Visiting Scholars
Open to senior professors and professors emeriti.
Early-Career Researchers
Open to postdoctoral researchers and scholars within five years of PhD completion.
Early-Career Visiting Scholars applicants need to be nominated; upon receipt of a nomination, we will contact the candidate to complete an application process. Nominations received after the stated deadline may still be considered and will be reviewed on a rolling basis following the April announcement round, subject to availability.
Benefits
- Accommodation in central Tokyo
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- Daily stipend ¥7,000
- Visa fees covered
Expectations
Fellows are expected to contribute to the program’s intellectual vitality by leading seminars, delivering public lectures, and engaging with local academic discourse.
Length of Stay
Fellowships range from a few weeks to four months, beginning in June 2026.
Academic Committee
David Y. Yang
Professor, Harvard University; chair of Academic Committee
Yingyi Qian
Emeritus Professor, Tsinghua University
Susan Shirk
Research Professor, University of California at San Diego Director Emeritus, 21st Century China Center, University of California at San Diego
Call Opens
5 March 2026Nomination Deadline
30 March 2026Notification of Results
mid-April 2026Programme Starts Date
mid-June 2026 onwardPlease submit your nomination via this form
Symposium “Innovation, Technology, and Geoeconomics: Japan, China, and the World”
China has remained a leader in high-tech industries despite sanctions and decoupling. This conference by Tokyo College and Scholars’ House will seek insights into China’s strength and how Japan and other countries can respond.
Event registration