SCCEI Visiting Researchers

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SCCEI Visiting Researcher Program

Convening global China scholars in one space to collaborate on research, exchange ideas, and make connections.

About the Program

The SCCEI Visiting Researcher program aims to cultivate an environment of bi-lateral learning where SCCEI faculty and researchers mentor and learn from researchers who are conducting groundbreaking and innovative empirical research focused on China's economy. Two times each year SCCEI welcomes a cohort of visiting researchers hailing from top institutions around the world. Visiting researchers are based out of our home office on Stanford's campus and work with us for up to one year. During their time at SCCEI, visiting researchers are paired with Stanford faculty and senior researchers who mentor their work and learning and help to integrate them into the SCCEI community through research opportunities and community events.

SCCEI accepts a Fall and Winter cohort of visitors each academic year. Read through the frequently asked questions to learn more about the program and how to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the typical researchers you accept?

We accept two categories of researchers, Visiting Scholars and Visiting Student Researchers.

Visiting Scholars must be an an academic researcher or professional with a substantial record of professional achievement related to China’s economy and institutions. Applicants must have a PhD degree.

Visiting Student Researchers must be enrolled in a Ph.D. program and focused on topics related to China's economy and institutions.

We look for faculty and graduate students conducting research using high-quality data and/or data-driven methodologies to build global understanding of social problems affecting China's economy. We accept researchers from data-driven social science disciplines such as economics, psychology, sociology, political science, and environmental studies. For more information about the areas in which SCCEI works, please see our Research Initiatives page.

All candidates must be affiliated with an external institution and be proficient in English. Priority will be given to candidates with a strong research record and a well-defined plan for their time at Stanford.

What can I expect as a SCCEI visiting researcher?

SCCEI accepts a Fall and Winter cohort each academic year. The Fall cohort is invited to join SCCEI between September and October, while the Winter cohort begins between January and February.

Visiting Scholars are required to be in residence at Stanford University for the duration of the appointment.

SCCEI visitors will all be offered:
•    J-visa sponsorship for themselves and any family members, as applicable
•    Desk and/or office space in Encina Hall
•    Mentorship from SCCEI faculty and scholars
•    Opportunities to audit Stanford courses and present their research
•    A warm welcome from the SCCEI community, and full inclusion in SCCEI seminars and events

How long can I be a Visiting Researcher with SCCEI?

Visitors are accepted for a 6-month or 12-month long appointment based on the visitor’s preference and SCCEI space allocations.

How do I apply?

Prospective visitors are required to submit an online application that requests basic background and educational information, a detailed research plan, and a copy of their CV in English.

Applications for visitors applying to join SCCEI for the 2025 - 2026 academic year must submit their applications by December 31, 2024.

Apply to Be a 25-26 Visitor

I applied, when will I hear back?

The SCCEI Visiting Researcher program is highly competitive. SCCEI receives many visitor applications each year and can only accept a fraction of them. All applications will be carefully reviewed and selected by a committee of Stanford faculty.

Decision letters are typically sent to accepted candidates in early February. If you have not heard back from us by mid-March, you have not been accepted as a SCCEI Visiting Researcher.

We ask that you wait to request additional documentation until you receive your decision letter from our committee.

I am applying for scholarships and need additional documentation. How do I request it?

After receiving your acceptance letter in early February, you may request additional information from your SCCEI contact. They will help curate the necessary documents and share them with you. SCCEI administration requires at least two weeks notice to generate any additional requested documentation.

For more detailed information related to international scholars and visa requirements, please visit Stanford’s Bechtel International Center's website.

Current Visiting Researchers

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Young Researcher Workshops

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