JSPS International Research Fellowship: The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) invites applications for its International Fellowship programs for FY 2026. These fellowships are designed to promote international research collaboration by supporting overseas researchers to conduct research in Japan across all fields including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Designation:
Postdoctoral Fellow / Invitation Research Fellow (depending on program category; refer to program details).
Research Area:
All fields of the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences are eligible. Specific research themes are determined by the host institution and collaborating researcher within Japan.
Location:
Research institutions across Japan (host institutions must be eligible under JSPS guidelines).
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Applicants must possess a doctoral degree received within six years prior to the application deadline (for postdoctoral programs).
- Applicants must not currently reside in Japan; they are generally required to be citizens or permanent residents of countries that have diplomatic relations with Japan.
- Separate, specific eligibility criteria apply for each fellowship category.
- All applicants must have an invitation from a host researcher/institution in Japan.
Job Description:
Selected fellows will engage in full-time research activities at a Japanese host institution, under the mentorship and collaboration of a Japanese researcher. Fellows are expected to conduct high-quality research, participate in academic exchange, and contribute to the advancement of their field. Details of research duties, objectives, and deliverables are to be agreed upon with the host researcher.
How to Apply:
- Submit applications via the designated JSPS Electronic Application System through the Japanese host institution.
- The host researcher is responsible for completing the relevant forms and submitting required supporting documents.
- Application guidelines, required documents, and details on the submission process are available on the JSPS website and outlined in the official guideline PDF.
Last Date for Apply:
- Application deadlines vary by fellowship category.
- Major deadlines for FY 2026:
- Late August 2025 (main submission period for most fellowships)
- Early December 2025 (for some program types)
- Additional cutoff dates may exist; always confirm exact deadlines with the chosen host institution and the latest JSPS announcements.
Key Points:
- International researchers in any academic field are encouraged to apply.
- Applicants must arrange in advance to be hosted by a qualified Japanese research institution.
- Application and eligibility requirements must be carefully reviewed as per fellowship type.
