The Center for East Asian Studies (CEAO) is an independent research center established by the Autonomous University of Madrid in 1992—the first institution of its kind in Spain. Its mission is to promote research and teaching on the diverse social, cultural, economic, and political dimensions of East Asian countries, with a particular emphasis on China and Japan. The Center brings together a multidisciplinary team of over 20 members and hosts a vibrant academic community, including around twenty PhD students. CEAO researchers regularly participate in competitive national and international research projects. The Center offers a dynamic intellectual environment with regular seminars, research workshops, and opportunities for scholarly exchange. With a strong international outlook, the CEAO fosters dialogue between disciplines and supports innovative research on East Asia in both historical and contemporary contexts. 

The institution offers a dynamic international research environment with multiple academic seminars held each month. Fellows will engage with undergraduate and graduate students, including a vibrant community of around twenty PhD candidates. They will have the opportunity to present their work in the CEAO Monthly Seminar, where team members provide constructive feedback. Additionally, fellows may be invited to deliver a public lecture. This intellectually rich setting fosters scholarly exchange and supports the development of high-quality research on China, Japan, or comparative East Asian studies. 

Prospective applicants should have a strong academic interest in China or Japan, either individually or through a comparative lens. Ideal candidates will propose research focused on these countries, aligning with the geographical specialization of the CEAO. As a multidisciplinary team of over 20 members, the CEAO welcomes projects from diverse fields—historical, political, cultural, linguistic, or contemporary studies—relating to China or Japan. Topics may also include Chinese or Japanese language. The group’s broad scope allows for flexibility in research themes, provided the project meaningfully contributes to the understanding of these East Asian societies, past or present.