Want to conduct research in Japan? Here is something you should not miss! Applications are open for the UNESCO Japan Young Researchers Fellowships 2027. This prestigious, fully funded fellowship program in Japan, supported by the Government of Japan, allows young researchers from around the world to conduct postgraduate research at leading Japanese universities and research institutes. The fellowship lasts 3-9 months and will commence in February 2027. Fellows will receive generous funding of up to US$10,000 to cover airfare, accommodation, local transportation, and more. The UNESCO/KEZO Obuchi Research Fellowship is aimed at talented researchers working in heritage conservation, sustainable development, and artificial intelligence (AI). The objective of the fellowship program is to support research collaboration and promote collaboration between Japan and participating countries. No application fee is required; the application deadline is September 30th, 2026.
Japan Research Fellowships Overview
- Host Country: Japan
- Programme: UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowship
- Coverage: Fully Funded
- Duration: 3-9 Months
- Fellowship Awards: 10
- Fellowship Period: February – December 2027
- Application Deadline: September 30th, 2026
Research Areas
Applicants are required to submit research proposals in the following areas:
- Artificial Intelligence and Education
- Heritage Conservation and Management
- AI for Sustainable Cities and Resilience
- AI for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Climate Action
- Ethical, Inclusive, and Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence
Fellowship Coverage:
Fellows will receive funding of up to US$10,000 used to cover
- Accommodation
- International Travel Coverage
- Medical Insurance
- Living expenses
- Local Transportation costs
- Research-related expenses
Who can Apply?
- Be a national of an eligible invited member state or associate member
- Applicants must be 40 Years or younger at the time of application
- Hold a master’s degree in a relevant area
- Have excellent academic achievement
- Have strong research potential
- Obtain acceptance from a supervisor at a Japanese university
Why must you apply?
The programme offers an excellent opportunity to young researchers to:
- Conduct research at renowned Japanese institutions.
- Receive financial support of up to US$10,000.
- Collaborate with international researchers.
- Contribute to research addressing major global challenges through innovation and sustainable development.
Required Documents
- Application form
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Recommendation letter
- Acceptance letter from a Japanese host institution
- UNESCO language certificate (if required)
- Any additional supporting documents requested by UNESCO
How to Apply?
Contact your country’s National Commission for UNESCO, prepare the required documents, and submit your application to your National Commission before the deadline. Nominated applicants must then complete the UNESCO Online submission process.
Application Deadline;
Final nominations must be received by September 30th, 2026.
To apply and for more details, visit the offical link below:
