The GCR Joint Research Program 2026 in Japan is a partially funded collaborative research initiative hosted by the Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS) at Kyoto University. It supports interdisciplinary, issue-based research projects that bridge Southeast Asian studies with global challenges, fostering innovation and international cooperation.
Kyoto University is one of Japan’s leading national universities, renowned for its research excellence and global outlook. The Global Collaborative Research (GCR) hub promotes international joint research, young researcher training, and the creation of research platforms connecting academia, civil society, and policy communities.
GCR Joint Research Program Benefits
- Up to 400,000 JPY per year for field-stay type, visiting joint research, and material sharing programs
- Additional up to 1,000,000 JPY per project for large collection purchase costs (material sharing type)
- Support for interdisciplinary research combining humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences
- Access to international networks and research resources of CSEAS
- Opportunity for young researchers to collaborate with local researchers in planning, fieldwork, and international dissemination
GCR Joint Research Program Eligibility Criteria
- Open to researchers affiliated with universities or research institutions worldwide
- Applicants must submit a research plan aligned with the program’s objectives
- For field-stay type: research must involve field-based activities in Southeast Asia or related regions
- For visiting joint research: requires invitation and collaboration with CSEAS faculty
- For material sharing: must involve sharing or acquisition of research materials/collections
How to Apply for GCR Joint Research Program?
- Download the application guidelines and forms from the official website
- Prepare required documents: Application Form (Form 1), CV of Principal Investigator (Form 2), Research Plan (Form 3), Research Organization (Form 4), and Foreign Researcher Invitation Form (Form 5) if applicable
- Submit all documents as PDF files (except Form 4 which must be in Excel) via email with subject line ‘GCR二次共同研究応募’
- Ensure all documents arrive by the deadline: June 22, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the GCR Joint Research Program. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the GCR Joint Research Program?
The GCR Joint Research Program is a partially funded collaborative research initiative hosted by Kyoto University’s Center for Southeast Asian Studies. It supports interdisciplinary, issue-based research projects focusing on Southeast Asian studies and global challenges.
Who can apply for this program?
Researchers affiliated with universities or research institutions worldwide are eligible. The program welcomes both senior and early-career researchers, especially those interested in interdisciplinary collaboration and fieldwork in Southeast Asia.
What types of research programs are available?
Three types are offered: field-stay type (2 projects), visiting joint research (1 project), and material sharing (1 project). Each provides up to 400,000 JPY per year for two years, with additional funding for large material collections.
What is the deadline for the second call?
The application deadline is June 22, 2026. All documents must arrive by this date. Late submissions will not be accepted.
How do I submit my application?
Submit all required documents as PDF files (except Form 4 which must be in Excel) via email to the GCR office. The subject line must include ‘GCR二次共同研究応募’. Ensure all forms are complete and signed.
What are the benefits of the program?
Selected projects receive up to 400,000 JPY per year for two years. Additional funding up to 1,000,000 JPY is available for large material collections. Researchers also gain access to CSEAS’s international networks and resources.
Can I apply if I am not from Japan?
Yes, international researchers are welcome. The program encourages global collaboration and supports fieldwork in Southeast Asia. Non-Japanese researchers may need to arrange visa and travel independently.
What documents are required for application?
You need to submit: Application Form (Form 1), CV of Principal Investigator (Form 2), Research Plan (Form 3), Research Organization (Form 4 in Excel), and Foreign Researcher Invitation Form (Form 5) if applicable. All forms are available for download.
How are projects evaluated?
Projects are evaluated based on their alignment with the program’s five objectives: interdisciplinary research, global issue focus, platform creation, Japan-Southeast Asia collaboration, and young researcher development. Innovative basic research is also considered.
When will results be announced?
The official site does not specify an announcement date. Applicants should monitor their email and the GCR website for updates after the deadline.
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