The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation New Professorships in Buddhist Studies Grant

The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation offers grants of up to $300,000 over four years to support new professorships in Buddhist studies at institutions worldwide. Eligible institutions must demonstrate that the position will significantly enhance their curriculum in Buddhist studies. A commitment letter from a senior official is required, ensuring the position becomes a permanent, tenure-track role post-funding. This initiative aims to advance the understanding and teaching of Buddhism in higher education.

Institutions of higher education worldwide are eligible to apply for grants up to $300,000 (to be expended over four years) in support of teaching positions in Buddhist studies.
If the proposed position is a replacement for a retirement or otherwise vacated position where Buddhist Studies at the institution would be significantly affected without award funds, the proposal should make that case.
In addition, applicant institutions are eligible to request funds for costs related to a competitive search for the proposed position. The request must not exceed the $300,000 maximum.
A letter must be attached to the application from the institution’s president, vice-chancellor, rector, provost, or dean expressing the institution’s commitment to maintain the seeded position as a permanent, tenure-track post after the expiration of The Robert H. Ho Family Foundation Global’s funding, consistent with the university’s policies on tenure-track positions. At institutions without a tenure-track system, the applicant institution must commit to continuing the position for a substantial period after the expiration of grant funding and must provide a description of how this commitment fits its contractual practices.
The heart of the application is a statement outlining the proposed position—its responsibilities, departmental location, its rank, the fit with the institution’s mission and curricular plans, and the qualifications sought in potential appointees.