Call for Research Proposals: China and Central Asia 

Overview

CAPS Unlock invites research proposals on the evolving relationship between Central Asia and China. The program supports original, policy-relevant work that helps clarify how China’s growing presence is reshaping economic, political, and social dynamics across the region. 

We are looking for researchers who can go beyond surface-level analysis. Strong proposals will be grounded in evidence, engage with existing literature, and offer a clear and focused research question. We are particularly interested in work that brings new angles, underexplored topics, or original data to the table. Proposals that offer a genuinely fresh perspective, whether through methodology, framing, or subject matter, will be looked upon favorably during selection. 

Who should apply 

The call is open to researchers from Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) with a background in economics, social sciences, or related fields. 

We encourage applications from both early-career and established researchers. 

Knowledge of Chinese is strongly preferred and will be considered an advantage, particularly for projects that rely on Chinese-language sources. However, strong proposals without Chinese language skills will still be considered where appropriate. 

What we are looking for

We welcome proposals across a focused set of themes, including: 

• Trade, investment, and industrial policy 
• Energy, climate, and critical minerals; we have a particular interest in research on critical raw materials (CRM) and Central Asia’s role in global supply chains for these resources 
• Infrastructure, connectivity, and transport corridors 
• Digital technologies, e-commerce, and data governance 
• Migration and labor dynamics 
• Narratives, soft power, and China’s public presence in the region 
• These themes are indicative rather than exhaustive, but proposals should remain clearly relevant to contemporary China-Central Asia engagement. 

What selected applicants will receive 

1. $500 (individual researchers) or $1,000 (research teams) 

2. Up to four months to produce a 6,000–7,000-word paper 

3. Editorial support and the opportunity to present their work as part of a broader CAPS Unlock publication and events 

Application requirements 

Applicants should submit a research proposal of up to 1,000 words. The proposal should include: 

• A clear research question and objective 
• Brief engagement with relevant literature (including Chinese sources where possible)
• Proposed methodology  
• Indication of available data or sources 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a brief interview as part of the selection process. 

Language: All proposals and final papers must be submitted in English. 

How to apply

Please submit your CV & Research proposal via the link: https://forms.gle/1T6MZ9mU4Gt9i7536 

Timeline

• Call opens: 30 April 2026 
• Applications reviewed on a rolling basis 
• Shortlisted candidates interviewed shortly after submission 
• Final selections: 20 June 2026 
• Research period: up to four months from selection