Apply Now for the JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026: Advance Your Research Career in Japan

Application Deadline: 31 January 2026 (23:59 JST)

The United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), in partnership with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), is now accepting applications for the 2026 JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme. This prestigious opportunity supports outstanding young researchers and policymakers — particularly from developing countries — to pursue advanced, policy-relevant research in sustainability at leading institutions across Japan. The application deadline is 31 January 2026 (23:59 JST).

Since its establishment in 1996, more than 250 early-career scholars — 70% from developing countries — have benefited from this fellowship. The programme continues to strengthen global collaboration, offering fellows an unparalleled opportunity to expand their academic horizons, engage with world-class mentors, and contribute to global sustainability research.

About the JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme

Jointly organized by UNU and JSPS, the fellowship provides a multidisciplinary platform for promising researchers to conduct advanced studies aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Fellows carry out their research under the supervision of host professors at Japanese universities or research institutions. Research may also be conducted at UNU-IAS, provided both the host and UNU agree.

The fellowship particularly welcomes scholars whose work aligns with UNU-IAS’s thematic research areas — focusing on climate governance, biodiversity, water and resource management, and innovative education for sustainable development.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must hold a doctoral degree received on or after 2 April 2020, or be scheduled to receive it by July 2026. Candidates must be citizens of countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Japan. Japanese nationals (including dual citizens) and permanent residents are not eligible.

Applicants must demonstrate strong academic credentials and a proven capacity for research. Those previously awarded a JSPS Standard or Pathway Fellowship cannot apply.

Fellowship Benefits

The JSPS–UNU Fellowship provides comprehensive support, including:

• Monthly maintenance allowance: JPY 362,000
• Settling-in allowance: JPY 200,000
• Round-trip airfare (based on JSPS regulations)
• Overseas travel insurance
• Research grant (Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research): available for research-related expenses through the host institution

These benefits are designed to enable fellows to focus entirely on research and professional development in a conducive academic environment.

Fellowship Duration and Timeline

Fellowships are awarded for 24 months in full-month units. Fellows must commence their research in Japan by 30 November 2026 and are expected to reside continuously in the country throughout the fellowship period.

Successful candidates will be notified by May 2026, after which they will submit official documents to JSPS through UNU-IAS. The award confirmation process may take up to three months following submission.

Research Areas

Fellows can pursue research in one of four thematic programmes under UNU-IAS:

1. Governance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (GCSD)

Focuses on multidisciplinary, policy-driven research addressing climate change mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage. Topics include decarbonization strategies, international climate law, sustainable food systems, SDG localization, and climate–security nexus.

2. Biodiversity & Society (BDS)

Explores the link between biodiversity and human well-being through landscape approaches, sustainable food systems, biocultural diversity, and green infrastructure. The research contributes to global frameworks such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and IPBES.

3. Water & Resource Management (WRM)

Supports research advancing SDG 6 — ensuring sustainable water and sanitation for all. Fellows examine issues such as water governance, climate change impacts, WASH, transboundary water management, and the water–energy–food nexus.

4. Innovation & Education (IVE)

Promotes innovative, inclusive, and lifelong learning approaches for sustainable development. Areas include educational technology, AI and higher education, climate change education, and policy development for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).

Application Process

Interested candidates must complete the online application form in English by 31 January 2026. A confirmed host researcher at a Japanese institution is required prior to application submission. UNU-IAS does not assist in finding hosts.

The UNU-IAS Fellowship Committee will review all submissions, shortlist candidates for an online interview, and confirm final nominations before forwarding them to JSPS for approval.

Why Apply?

The JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship provides early-career scholars with a transformative platform to advance their research, collaborate internationally, and contribute to sustainable development. Fellows gain exposure to cutting-edge research environments, access to expert mentorship, and the opportunity to influence global sustainability policy.

This fellowship not only enhances academic and professional excellence but also fosters the next generation of leaders driving innovation and sustainability worldwide.

Application Deadline: 31 January 2026 (23:59 JST)
Fellowship Start Date: By 30 November 2026

For more infotmation and to apply, CLICK HERE

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