Japan is opening its doors to the world’s brightest young researchers. The United Nations University (UNU), in collaboration with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), has officially announced that applications for the JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 are now open, offering a fully funded, two-year research opportunity in Japan.
With a monthly stipend of ¥362,000, international airfare, insurance, and a research grant, this prestigious fellowship is attracting global attention, especially from PhD graduates from developing countries.
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Why the JSPS–UNU Fellowship Is a Game-Changer
This fellowship is not just about funding, it’s about impact.
Selected fellows will:
- Conduct policy-relevant research
- Work under Japanese host professors
- Collaborate with UN experts and global institutions
- Live and research in Japan for 24 months
Since 1996, more than 250 young researchers have benefited from this programme, 70% from the developing world, making it one of the most inclusive postdoctoral opportunities globally.
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Fellowship Benefits
Successful candidates receive a fully funded package, including:
- Round-trip international airfare
- Monthly allowance: ¥362,000
- Settling-in grant: ¥200,000
- Overseas travel & health insurance
- Research grant (via host institution)
Note: Benefits are subject to JSPS regulations and may be updated.
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Who Can Apply?
You are eligible if you:
- Hold a PhD awarded on or after 2 April 2020,
OR will complete your PhD by July 2026 - Are not Japanese (no Japanese nationality or permanent residency)
- Are a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
- Have strong research or professional experience
- Have never received a JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship before
Japanese nationals, permanent residents, and previous JSPS fellows are not eligible.
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Research Areas You Can Apply to
Applicants must choose one thematic area, with research that is policy-oriented and gender-inclusive:
1. Governance for Climate Change & Sustainable Development (GCSD)
- Climate governance & SDGs
- International climate law
- Climate security
- Carbon markets & decarbonization
2. Biodiversity & Society (BDS)
- Human–nature relationships
- Sustainable food systems
- Landscape & ecosystem governance
- Biodiversity policy (CBD, IPBES)
3. Water & Resource Management (WRM)
- SDG 6 (water & sanitation)
- Water & climate change
- WASH, transboundary waters
- Water–food–energy nexus
4. Innovation & Education (IVE)
- Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
- Climate & biodiversity education
- AI, higher education & sustainability
- Inclusive learning technologies
Important Requirement: Host Researcher
Before applying, candidates must secure a host researcher at a Japanese university or research institution.
UNU-IAS researchers cannot act as hosts, and UNU will not arrange hosts for applicants.
How to Apply (Simple Steps)
- Choose your research theme
- Identify and confirm a Japanese host researcher
- Prepare a strong research proposal
- Complete the online application (English only)
- Submit before 31 January 2026 (23:59 JST)
Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an online interview.
Fellowship Timeline
- Application deadline: 31 January 2026
- Results announced: May 2026
- Start date: By 30 November 2026
- Duration: 24 months (continuous stay in Japan)
Why This Fellowship Matters
- Fully funded postdoc in Japan
- Strong focus on sustainability & global policy
- High monthly stipend compared to other fellowships
- Backed by UNU & JSPS
- Ideal for early-career researchers
If you’re a PhD holder or soon-to-graduate researcher aiming for international exposure, policy impact, and financial security, the JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 could be your breakthrough opportunity.
Apply early. Secure your host. Think global.
