To all the young scholars seeking research opportunities abroad, what could be better than gaining cutting-edge experience in Japan with all your expenses fully covered? Well, Today at Opportunities Radar, we have brought you an exciting, fully funded fellowship programme you should not miss out. UNU-IAS (United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability), through its official portal, has announced a call for applications for “JSPS-UNU Fellowship Programme 2026″ and is seeking outstanding young scholars from around the world.
It’s a prestigious international fellowship program jointly organized by UNU-IAS and the JSPS (Japan Society for the Promotion of Science). The programme offers an exceptional opportunity for outstanding young scholars from around the world to conduct cutting-edge research on sustainability in one of the participating universities or research institutions in Japan under the guidance of renowned researchers. The fellowship is 2 years long, with an expected start between September and November 2026.
The Government of Japan funds the fellowship, the selected participants will recieve a comprehensive support, including competetive allowance, airtravel support, health insurance, research grants, and other perks and benefits. The UNU-IAS serves as the nominating authority for all initial applications, and UNU will nominate the applicants. This is your chance to have an immersive research experience in a Country known for innovation, research & technology. No application fee is associated with the fellowship; the deadline for the JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship is January 31st, 2026. Read more details about the programme below.
Objective of UNU-IAS Postdoctoral Fellowship
The objective of the fellowship is to promote research cooperation between Japan and participating countries and to contribute towards research that supports Sustainable Development Goals.
JSPS-UNU Fellowship Programme 2026 in Japan Overview
| Host Country | Japan |
|---|---|
| Funded by | Government of Japan |
| Managed by | UNU-IAS |
| Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Fellowship Start Date | November 30, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | January 31, 2026 |
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Research Areas
The fellowship offers research in one of the following programme thematic research areas:
- Biodiversity & Society
- Innovation & Education
- Water & Resource Management
- Governance for Climate Change & Sustainable Development
Eligiblity Criteria
The fellowship is intended for applicants meeting the following criteria
- Citizens of countries having diplomatic ties with Japan
- Hold a Doctoral degree in fields related to sustainability
- Have secured their degree on or after April 2, 2020
- Doctoral students, expected to graduate by July 2026, may also apply
- Applicants must recieve acceptance from the host researcher at the Japanese institute before applying.
- The research proposals must align with thematic research areas
- Proficiency in the English language, both oral and written
Ineligiblity
- Japanese nationals are not eligible to apply
- Candidates who previously participated in the fellowship cannot apply
- Applicants who have not completed their PhD at the time of application
- Failing to secure a researcher at an eligible host institute
- Research proposal not aligned with the fellowship thematic areas
Coverage
The Government of Japan provides generous support to the participants selected under this fellowship program. The coverage includes
- A monthly allowance of JPY 362,000/month
- A round-trip air travel support to/from Japan
- One-time relocation (settling) allowance of JPY 200,000
- A comprehensive health insurance
- Research grants to cover research-related expenses
Fellowship Benefits
- Opportunity to conduct research in top Japanese research institutions
- Fellows will conduct research under the guidance of renowned scientists
- Networking opportunities with fellows and experts from around the world
- Opportunity to expand your publication record
- Conduct cutting-edge research while experiencing rich Japanese culture
Required Documents
The following documents need to be submitted in either English or the Japanese language
- 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
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How to Apply for JSPS-UNU Fellowship 2026?
Individuals meeting the required criteria need to submit their online applications via the official “UNU Portal”. Visit the official link below, and complete the application form by January 31st, 2026 (23:59 JST).
Note:
- Must confirm the host researcher before starting the application.
- Find out the eligible host institutions and the list of researchers
- Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an online interview
