Applications are now open for the 2026 JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme, jointly offered by the United Nations University (UNU) and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).
This fully funded fellowship provides early-career researchers with the opportunity to conduct advanced, policy-relevant sustainability research in Japan in collaboration with leading universities and research institutions, in cooperation with UNU Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) in Tokyo.
Fellowship Benefits
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24-month postdoctoral fellowship in Japan
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Monthly maintenance allowance of JPY 362,000
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Round-trip airfare (per JSPS regulations)
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JPY 200,000 settling-in allowance
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Overseas travel insurance
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Access to competitive research grants through host institutions
Who Should Apply
Eligible applicants must:
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Hold a PhD (awarded on or after 2 April 2020) or complete their doctorate by July 2026
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Be a non-Japanese national (Japanese citizens and permanent residents are not eligible)
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Have strong research experience and a clear sustainability focus
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Secure a host researcher at a Japanese university or research institution prior to applying
Research Areas
Applicants must align their proposal with one of UNU-IAS’s thematic programmes:
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Governance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development
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Biodiversity & Society
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Water & Resource Management
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Innovation & Education
All research must be policy-relevant and incorporate gender perspectives.
Key Dates
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Application Deadline: 31 January 2026 (23:59 JST)
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Interviews: Shortlisted candidates only
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Fellowship Start: By 30 November 2026
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Notification of Results: May 2026
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the online application form in English and confirm a host researcher before submission.
Contact
For inquiries, email: fellowships@unu.edu
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