To all young researchers contributing to research and developing in agriculture, fisheries, or related disciplines, we are here with an exciting international award in Japan that is meant for you. The Japan International Research Center for Agriculture Sciences (JIRCAS), a Japanese incorporated agency that conducts research in forestry, fisheries, and agriculture in developing states, has announced a call for nominations for the 20th edition of the “Japan International Awards 2026 for Young Agricultural Researchers“. The objective of the Japan award is to motivate young researchers who are contributing to research and development in fisheries, forestry, agriculture, and related sectors. The Award is intended for young researchers from developing countries under 40 years of age currently pursuing their degrees in non-Japanese research institutions.
Applicants who have previously participated in the awards but missed the award can re-apply again. The awards are highly competitive, and individuals with outstanding achievements in research and development in the desired areas are invited to submit applications. A total of 3 awards will be awarded, and each awardee will be invitied to Japan to attend the awardee ceremony where they will receive a testimonial by the chairman of the AFFRC, deliver a lecture, and recieve a prize of US$5,000. No application fee is required, last date for submission of the application is May 15th, 2026. Find out more details about the award below.
Details About Japan International Awards 2026 for Young Researchers
- Host Country: Japan
- Organized by: Ministry of Forestry & Fisheries (MAFF)
- Eligible Countries: Individuals from developing countries
- Managed By: JIRCAS
- Total Awards: Three
- Prize: US $5000
- Application Deadline: May 15th, 2026
Also, Check: Riken IMS Internship Program 2026 in Yokohama, Japan
Benefits
- The awardees will receive the following benefits
- Each awardee will recieve a cash prize of US $5000
- Awardees will be invitied to Japan to attend the Award ceremony
- Receive a testimonial from the Chairman of AFFRC
- Opportunity to deliver a lecture and present your research work in a ceremony
- Interact with researchers and leaders from across the world
Eligiblity Criteria
- Individuals fulfilling the following criteria are invitied to apply:
- Calling individuals from developing countries to apply
- Applicants’ age must be under 40 years of age as of January 1st, 2026
- Currently enrolled in the Non-Japanese research institute
- Individuals must be engaged in research and development in forestry, fisheries, agriculture, or related areas
Also, Check:
- Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program 2026-27 at Tsinghua University
- UNFPA Adolescents and Youth Fellow 2026 in Cairo, Egypt
Japan Award Application Process
Individuals cannot apply directly; applications can only be submitted by recommending research institutes, either Japanese or non-Japanese research institutes. Each institute can recommend one researcher. Visit the offical link below to download the Application form (1,2 & 3). Your recommending institute will submit all the required documents in English either by post or by email.
Application Deadline: Submit your application by May 15, 2026
For more details, visit the official link below.
JIRCAS JAPAN INTERNATIONAL AWARDS 2026



