JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications, offering an incredible fully funded postdoctoral opportunity in Japan. This prestigious fellowship, jointly organized by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and the United Nations University (UNU), welcomes researchers from all over the world to advance their studies in sustainability. Participants will have the chance to work closely with distinguished hosts at leading Japanese universities, gaining invaluable experience in cutting-edge research.
The fellowship spans a period of 2 years, and selected candidates are required to commence their program in Japan before 30th November 2026. There is no application fee, making it accessible to global applicants seeking an exceptional academic and professional experience. The JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026 provides a fully paid package, covering travel, accommodation, and living expenses, empowering researchers to focus entirely on their innovative work in Japan.
Benefits
The program covers:
- Return Airfare
- Maintenance Allowance
- A settling-in allowance
- Research Expenses
- Health Insurance
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan.
- Must hold a doctoral degree received on or after April 2, 2020 (maternity/paternity leave time may be subtracted, counting 4 weeks as 1 month). OR
- Those who will complete their doctoral degree by the end of July 2026 are also eligible.
- A Japanese national (including dual citizenship holders) is not eligible.
- A permanent resident of Japan can not apply.
Required Documents
- An updated CV with a list of publications
- PhD Degree Certificate
- Degree Transcript
- Acceptance letter from the Host researcher
- Letter of Recommendation
- Research Plan
- PhD Thesis Abstract not exceeding 500 words.
Who can apply?
This opportunity is for the Post-Doctoral Fellowship. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree
Areas of Research
Each fellow in this program is expected to conduct research in one of the thematic areas below, working directly under the supervision of the host researcher.
- Biodiversity & Society
- Innovation & Education
- Water & Resource Management
- Governance for Climate Change & Sustainable Development
How to Apply?
- Check that you meet all eligibility requirements, including holding (or soon completing) a doctoral degree and fitting the citizenship criteria.
- Contact a professor or researcher in Japan who can host you for your postdoctoral research. A confirmed host is required for your application.
- Prepare a clear and strong research proposal aligned with your host’s expertise and UNU‑IAS sustainability themes. Gather all necessary documents, including your CV and academic certificates.
- Fill out the official application form carefully, making sure all details are complete and accurate.
- Submit your application before the deadline, ensuring everything is complete and on time. Late submissions will not be considered.
- Wait for the review process. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview with the selection committee.
- If selected, your nomination will be confirmed, and your host researcher will finalize supervision of your project in Japan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026 offers a fully funded two-year postdoctoral program in Japan for eligible doctoral graduates. It covers research in sustainability, provides financial support, requires a confirmed host, and selection includes an online interview.
What is the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026?
The JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious postdoctoral program for young researchers worldwide. It allows fellows to conduct advanced research in sustainability under the guidance of host researchers at Japanese universities and research institutions for two years.
Who is eligible for the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026?
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree obtained after April 2, 2020, or be scheduled to receive one by July 2026. Citizens of countries with diplomatic relations with Japan are eligible. Japanese nationals and permanent residents cannot apply.
How long is the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship is awarded for 24 months, starting from the initiation date. Fellows must reside continuously in Japan during this period and start their program by November 30, 2026, to maintain eligibility for the full award benefits.
What financial support does the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026 provide?
The fellowship includes a monthly maintenance allowance of JPY 362,000, a round-trip airfare to Japan, a settling-in allowance of JPY 200,000, and overseas travel insurance. Additional research grants may be provided for cooperative research expenses.
How can I apply for the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026?
Interested candidates must complete the application form in English and submit it by January 31, 2026. A confirmed host researcher in Japan is required before applying. UNU-IAS researchers cannot serve as hosts for applicants.
What are the research areas for the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026?
Fellows can conduct research in Governance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development, Biodiversity & Society, Water & Resource Management, or Innovation & Education. All research must be policy-relevant and integrate gender considerations.
Is there an interview for the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026?
Yes, only shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview with the UNU-IAS Fellowship Committee. The interview evaluates the research proposal and the applicant’s potential for successful postdoctoral work in Japan.
How are candidates nominated for the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026?
UNU-IAS acts as the nominating authority. Candidates are nominated based on the quality of their research proposal, alignment with the program’s thematic areas, and their academic merit and professional experience.
Can fellows conduct research at UNU-IAS?
Yes, fellows may conduct research at UNU-IAS if the host university and UNU-IAS mutually agree. The primary research must remain under the supervision of the host researcher at the confirmed Japanese institution.
When will the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026 decisions be announced?
Successful candidates of the JSPS UNU Fellowship 2026 will be contacted by May 2026. Nominated applicants submit their official forms to JSPS, and final award decisions are typically confirmed within three months.
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