The JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 is now inviting applications. This is your chance to join the prestigious United Nations University in Tokyo on a fully-funded, 24-month research journey designed to bridge the gap between groundbreaking science and real-world sustainable development.
Imagine collaborating with leading Japanese academics and UN experts, all while receiving comprehensive support to focus entirely on your work. Let’s explore how this fellowship can be the defining next step for your career.
Fellowship at a Glance
- Fellowship Name: JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme
- Host Institutions: United Nations University (UNU-IAS) & Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)
- Location: Tokyo, Japan (with research at universities across the country)
- Duration: 24 Months
- Funding: Fully Funded (Stipend, Airfare, Insurance, and Grants)
- Eligibility: PhD holders (within the last ~6 years) from countries with diplomatic ties to Japan.
- Key Deadline: January 31, 2026 (23:59 Japan Standard Time)
What is the JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme?
This isn’t just another research grant. Jointly organized by the United Nations University (UNU) and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), this programme creates a unique bridge between high-level academic research and the policy-driven mission of the United Nations.
Since 1996, it has empowered over 250 young scholars—with a strong focus on those from developing nations—to conduct advanced, policy-relevant research in sustainability. As a fellow, you become part of this legacy, working under a host researcher at a Japanese university while being integrated into the global, multidisciplinary network of UNU-IAS in Tokyo.
Why This Fellowship is a Game-Changer: The Fully-Funded Benefits
Worried about finances? This programme is designed to let you focus 100% on your research. The comprehensive financial package includes:
- Monthly Stipend: A JPY 362,000 maintenance allowance to cover your living costs in Japan comfortably.
- Travel Support: A round-trip economy class air ticket between your home country and Japan.
- Settling-In Allowance: A JPY 200,000 grant to help you get established when you first arrive.
- Research Security: Overseas travel insurance and accident coverage for the fellowship period.
This holistic support means you can immerse yourself in your work and life in Japan without financial stress.
Who Should Apply? Understanding the Eligibility
This fellowship seeks passionate, early-career researchers ready to contribute to global sustainability. Here are the key criteria:
- Academic Qualification: You must hold a doctoral degree, awarded on or after April 2, 2020. If you are scheduled to successfully defend your dissertation by July 31, 2026, you are also eligible to apply.
- Nationality: You must be a citizen of a country that has diplomatic relations with Japan. (Japanese nationals and permanent residents of Japan are not eligible.)
- Professional Focus: You must have identified and secured a preliminary agreement with a prospective host researcher at a Japanese university or research institution. UNU-IAS does not assist in this matching process, so proactive networking is essential.
- Previous Awards: Researchers who have previously been awarded a JSPS Standard or Pathway Fellowship are not eligible.
Your Research Focus: Thematic Areas for 2026
Your proposed research must align with one of the following policy-relevant thematic areas at UNU-IAS and must thoughtfully incorporate a gender perspective:
- Governance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (GCSD)
- Biodiversity & Society (BDS)
- Water & Resource Management (WRM)
- Innovation & Education (IVE)
How to Apply for the 2026 Cohort (Step-by-Step)
The application window is open now, with a firm deadline of January 31, 2026. Follow these steps to prepare a strong application:
- Define Your Research: Craft a clear, policy-relevant proposal within one of the four thematic areas.
- Find Your Host Researcher (The Most Critical Step): Proactively reach out to and secure a tentative agreement with a researcher at a Japanese institution who can host and supervise your work. UNU-IAS researchers cannot act as hosts.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required materials, including your research plan, CV, and letters of recommendation.
- Submit the Application: Complete the official online application form in English before the deadline.
Pro Tip: Start the process of finding a host researcher immediately, as this can be the most time-consuming part of the application.
Ready to Begin Your Journey in Japan?
If you’re a postdoctoral researcher driven by the desire to make a tangible impact, this fellowship is your platform. It offers more than funding—it offers a community, a global network, and a chance to contribute to a more sustainable future from the heart of Tokyo.
Don’t miss this chance.
For more information, visit: JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship
Good luck with your application! If you have any questions about the process, feel free to leave a comment below.
