Baltic Short-Term Travel/Research Grant

Grant Information

The Center for Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies (CREEES) invites applications for travel grants for short-term study and research trips to Estonia and the Baltic Sea Region.

Since the break-up of the USSR, Estonia and the Baltic states have been transformed into vibrant Western democracies and become member states of the European Union and NATO. The countries are well  known for  political and economic freedom, superior educational systems, minimal corruption, and technological innovation. Considering the current fragile state of relations between the Western world and Russia, the study of the Baltic region has become more topical and important than ever.

The $5,000 travel grant can be used to cover travel and living expenses associated with a 1–3-week trip to Estonia. Other countries in the Baltic Sea Region may be visited during the trip.

The student will be hosted by Tartu University’s Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies (Tartu) and Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom of Estonia (Tallinn). Other (co-)hosts may be considered, depending on the student’s interest and goals.

The student may wish to engage in the following activities during their trip:

  1. The annual Tartu University’s Conference on Russian and East European Studies takes place from June 9-11, 2024 in Tartu, Estonia. The CFA for the 2024 conference will be announced shortly;
  2. Academic exchange with scholars and students of Tartu University’s Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies and its centers and programs (e.g., Center for Eurasian and Russian Studies, Center of IT Impact Studies and its ECePS ERA Chair of e-governance and digital public services, Program on Politics and Governance in the Digital Age), the International Centre for Defence and Security, Tallinn University of Technology, Baltic Defence College, etc. The Skytte Institute is prepared to host a seminar/colloquium for the student to discuss their research/study project and facilitate contacts between the student and Tartu University’s faculty and students;
  3. Carry out archival research at the National Archives of Estonia and/or at libraries and museums;
  4. Visit Tartu University’s Narva College and immerse in the local Russian-speaking community and culture of the border city.

Eligibility

The grants will be awarded to Stanford University’s graduate students who are engaged in Russian and East European/Baltic studies and wish to travel to Estonia to attend conferences, conduct research, and participate in academic exchange with local faculty and students. Preference will be given to students focusing on international relations between Russia, the EU, and the USA; foreign and domestic policy and development of Estonia and the Baltic states; and e-governance, digital transformation, and (cyber) security.

How to Apply

To apply, complete the Stanford Off-campus Learning Opportunity application, including:

  1. CV/resume
  2. 1-page statement of purpose detailing the interests of the student and the goal of the trip
  3. Timeline and travel budget

Please note: Recipients are required to submit research reports upon completion of their research.

Quarterly Application deadlines: November 1, 2023 (Autumn) - February 1, 2024 (Winter) - May 1, 2024 (Spring)

Questions?

Email us @ creeesinfo [at] stanford.edu (CREEES).

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