To all the outstanding researchers out there, do you want to have an immersive research experience in Japan, with all your finances covered? Well, here is an exciting opportunity. The Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology has announced the applications for one of its anticipated “OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2026-27” through its official portal and is inviting applications from outstanding researchers from all around the world to apply and have an opportunity to undertake independent research at OIST (Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology) under the supervision of renowned faculty members.
The OIST Visiting Program offers research projects in a wide range of areas, including Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Life Sciences, Engineering, and other related interdisciplinary fields. Applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds are invited to submit their applications. The duration of the Visiting Scholars program is 3-12 months, during which the selected “Visiting Scholars” will gain hands-on research experience in state-of-the-art research facilities under the mentorship of renowned faculty members. There are no teaching duties associated with the visiting scholar; however, the scholars are expected to give a general lecture related to their fields of research within the 1st months of the program.
It’s a fully funded program in Japan; all costs related to the visiting scholars program are borne by OIST. The coverage includes accommodation, Travel Allowance, Living expenses per diem, and more. The objective of the Visiting Scholars FY2026 is to attract outstanding mid-career and senior researchers to deepen their research focus and foster international collaboration between OIST and participating countries. OIST does not charge any application fee while applying for the program; all interested applicants need to submit their applications before September 15th, 2025. Read more details about the program below.
OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2026 in Japan Overview
| Host Country | Japan |
|---|---|
| Eligible Countries | All Nationals |
| Host Institute | Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology (OIST) |
| Programme | Visiting Scholars FY2026 |
| Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Number of Awards | Up to 30 |
| Program Duration | 3–12 Months |
| Program Dates | April 2026 – March 2027 |
| Application Deadline | September 15th, 2025 |
Also, Check: NTU Singapore Global Connect Fellowship 2026
Research Areas
The program spans all fields, which include:
- Life Sciences
- Engineering
- Chemistry
- Computational Science
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Other interdisciplinary areas related to the above fields
OIST Visiting Scholars FY 2026 Coverage
OIST covers all the costs related to the program, including:
- Economy Class Round Trip Airfare support
- On-campus (Accommodation)
- Daily Allowance to cover living expenses
- A designated space for research
- Administrative & Logistic support
Benefits
- The visiting scholars program offers hands-on research experience
- Research projects are offered in a wide range of areas
- Conduct independent research in a state-of-the-art research setting
- Interact with one or more OIST research units
- Access to OIST library, research facilities, and computing resources
Eligiblity Criteria
Applicants meeting the following criteria are invited to submit their applications for the 2026 OIST Visiting Scholars Program:
- The applications are open to all nationals
- Applicants holding a PhD degree in the relevant field who are independent researchers, eg, Junior group leader or faculty member at a research institute
- Committed to attending the program during the program dates
Selection Criteria
The evaluation is based on the following factors:
- Scientific Quality
- Impact of the proposed project
- Outreach and activity, including seminars, courses, career talks, and audience lectures
Required Documents?
Applicants need to submit the following documents in the OIST Visiting Scholars program application:
- An updated CV (must include a list of publications)
- A research proposal consisting of (1-2) pages, including a brief description of the research to date, proposed research during the visit to OIST, and the research unit you are interested in.
- A title and abstract for public talk or other activities such as research talks with specialists, short courses, workshops, research seminars, or career talks
Also, Check: Harvard Environmental Fellows Program 2026
How to Apply for 2026 OIST Visiting Scholars Program?
The application process is online via INTERFOLIO, All interested applicants need to visit the official link mentioned below and start with their online application. Only applications submitted via Interfolio will be accepted. All the selected applicants will be informed about the selection result no later than December 31st, 2025.
APPLY FOR OIST’S VISTING PROGRAM 2026
OIST highly encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups
Advertisement
