The JSPS-UNU Fellowship 2026 in Japan is now accepting applications. Qualified researchers worldwide are eligible to apply for this fully supported postdoctoral fellowship, which is sponsored by the United Nations University (UNU) in partnership with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). The fellowship offers a unique chance to carry out cutting-edge sustainability research at one of the participating Japanese universities under the guidance of a host supervisor.
The chosen recipients of the two-year fellowship are anticipated to reach Japan by November 30, 2026. Because there is no application fee, researchers from all over the world can apply.Because there is no application fee, researchers from all over the world can apply. Postdoctoral fellows can obtain cutting-edge research experience and professional development in Japan’s dynamic academic environment with this program’s fully supported experience, which includes support for living and research expenses.
Host Country: Japan
University: The United Nations University (UNU)
Opportunity Type: Fellowship
Subject: All Subjects
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- Nationality-based eligibility: Candidates must be nationals of a nation with diplomatic ties to Japan.
- Candidates must possess a doctorate that was granted on or after April 2, 2020. This term might be reduced by the amount of time spent on maternity or paternity leave; four weeks is equivalent to one month.
- PhD completion flexibility: Candidates may also apply if they anticipate finishing their doctorate by the end of July 2026.
- Exclusion of Japanese nationals: Those who hold dual nationality or Japanese citizenship are ineligible.
- Permanent residents are not eligible to apply for the fellowship.
Benefits:
- Return airfare: Financial assistance to pay for the fellow’s round-trip ticket to Japan from their home country.
- Maintenance allowance: During the fellowship, a monthly stipend is provided to cover living expenditures such as accommodation, food, and daily essentials.
- Settling-in allowance: A one-time sum of money given to help with moving and setting up a place to stay when you first arrive in Japan.
- Research expenses: Funding for research-related costs, such as supplies, tools, and other project-specific requirements.
- Health insurance: All-inclusive coverage for medical care, guaranteeing the fellow’s welfare during the program.
Required Documents
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including a comprehensive list of publications and academic achievements
- PhD Degree Certificate: Proof of doctoral qualification
- Degree Transcript: Official record of academic performance during the doctoral program
- Acceptance Letter from Host Researcher: Confirmation of supervision by the host faculty member at the Japanese institution
- Letter of Recommendation: Endorsement from an academic or professional referee
- Research Plan: Detailed proposal outlining the objectives, methodology, and significance of the proposed research
- PhD Thesis Abstract: A concise summary of the doctoral thesis, not exceeding 500 words
Deadline: 31st January 2026
