The JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded international research opportunity designed for early-career researchers who want to conduct advanced, policy-relevant research in Japan. Jointly offered by the United Nations University (UNU) and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), this fellowship supports highly qualified postdoctoral scholars—particularly from developing countries—to work with leading Japanese universities and research institutions.

This fellowship focuses on sustainability, governance, innovation, education, climate change, biodiversity, and resource management, making it an excellent choice for researchers whose work connects academic research with real-world policy impact. With a generous monthly stipend, research support, and international exposure, the JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship stands out as one of the most competitive postdoctoral programs in Asia.

About the United Nations University and JSPS

The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization of the United Nations, dedicated to research on sustainability, development, and governance. UNU Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) in Tokyo plays a central role in coordinating this fellowship.

The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) is Japan’s leading research funding agency, supporting scientific excellence and international collaboration across all academic disciplines. Together, UNU and JSPS provide fellows with access to Japan’s world-class research ecosystem.

JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 Overview 

Item	Details
Fellowship Name	JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship
Year	2026
Host Country	Japan
Host Institutions	Japanese universities and research institutes (approved list)
Fellowship Type	Fully Funded Postdoctoral
Duration	24 months
Monthly Stipend	JPY 362,000
Application Deadline	31 January 2026
Start Date	By 30 November 2026

Research Areas Covered

Under JSPS–United Nation University Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, research must be policy-relevant and integrate gender perspectives where applicable. Key thematic areas include:

• Governance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development
• Biodiversity and Society
• Water and Resource Management
• Innovation and Education

Applicants must align their proposal with one of these areas and work under a confirmed Japanese host researcher.

Scholarship Benefits and Financial Support

The JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship provides comprehensive financial coverage:

• Monthly maintenance allowance of JPY 362,000
• Round-trip airfare to Japan (as per JSPS rules)
• Settling-in allowance of JPY 200,000
• Overseas travel and health insurance
• Access to a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (applied by host researcher)
• Recognition as a research member of the host institution

Note: If you are already residing in Japan before the fellowship begins, airfare and settling-in allowance may not be provided.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, you must meet all of the following eligibility criteriacriteria:

• Hold a doctoral degree awarded on or after 2 April 2020 (excluding maternity/paternity leave)
• OR expect to receive your PhD by July 2026 after successful dissertation defense
• Be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
• Not hold Japanese nationality, dual citizenship, or permanent residency in Japan
• Not have previously received a JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship
• Have strong academic and professional research experience
• Secure confirmation from an eligible Japanese host researcher before applying

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents in English:

• Completed online application form
• Detailed research proposal aligned with fellowship themes
• Curriculum Vitae (academic-focused)
• Copy of doctoral diploma or expected graduation proof
• Confirmation of host researcher
• Supporting academic records (as requested in the form)

How to Apply for JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026

Applications are centrally managed by UNU-IAS. Follow these steps carefully:

• Identify and contact a suitable host researcher at a Japanese institution
• Obtain written confirmation of supervision from the host researcher
• Complete the online application form before 31 January 2026 (23:59 JST)
• Submit the application in English via the official portal
• Wait for shortlisting and possible online interview

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Selection and Nomination Process

The fellowship selection follows a competitive, merit-based process:

• UNU-IAS Fellowship Committee reviews all applications
• Shortlisted candidates are invited for online interviews
• Host researcher confirmation is reconfirmed
• UNU nominates selected candidates to JSPS
• JSPS conducts final award approval

Successful candidates are notified by May 2026.

Duration and Study Conditions

• Fellowship duration: 24 continuous months
• Fellows must begin by 30 November 2026
• Continuous residence in Japan is mandatory
• Fellows conduct research under host supervision

Comparison of JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026

Feature	JSPS-UNU Fellowship	Marie Skłodowska-Curie PF	Humboldt Fellowship
Host Region	Japan	Europe	Germany
Monthly Stipend	Very High	High	High
Policy Focus	Strong	Moderate	Moderate
Host Search Required	Yes	Yes	Yes
Duration	24 months	12–24 months	6–24 months

More information about JSPS–United Nation University Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026

1. Is the JSPS-UNU Fellowship fully funded?
   Yes, it covers stipend, airfare, insurance, and research support.
2. Can I apply without a confirmed host researcher?
   No, host confirmation is mandatory before applying.
3. Is this fellowship open to developing countries?
   Yes, and applicants from developing countries are strongly encouraged.
4. Can I conduct research at UNU-IAS?
   Yes, if mutually agreed with your host institution.
5. Is teaching required during the fellowship?
   No, the fellowship is research-focused.
6. Can the fellowship be extended beyond 24 months?
   No, extensions are not permitted.
7. Is there an age limit?
   No formal age limit exists.
8. Can I apply if I live in Japan now?
   Yes, but some benefits may not apply.
9. Are humanities and social sciences eligible?
   Yes, if aligned with sustainability and policy themes.
10. Can I make appeal for the final decision?
    No, selection decisions are final.

If you are an early-career researcher aiming to advance your academic career in Japan while contributing to global sustainability and policy solutions, the JSPS-UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 is an opportunity you should not miss. Start contacting potential host researchers early and prepare a strong, focused research proposal. APPLY NOW. For more details about the fellowship, please visit the official website.

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