Japan’s leading research funding agency the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) is now inviting applications for its FY2027 Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan. The program gives outstanding early career researchers from around the world the chance to conduct collaborative research at Japanese universities and research institutions.
Two pathways are available: the Standard Programme for longer stays and the Short-term (PE) Programme for focused projects. The Short-term (PE) First Call is currently open.
JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan (FY2027) |
| Categories | Standard and Short-term (PE) |
| Deadline | 25 September 2026 |
| Target | Foreign postdoctoral researchers with host support in Japan |
| Fields | All academic disciplines |
| Host requirement | Eligible Japanese university or research institution |
Fellowship Categories
Standard Programme
Supports longer collaborative postdoctoral research in Japan under the guidance of a host researcher. Duration is typically 12 to 24 months.
Short-term (PE) Programme
Designed for researchers from eligible countries seeking shorter collaborative projects. Duration is generally 1 to 12 months. It helps strengthen international partnerships through focused academic exchange.
Applicants should consult the official guidelines to confirm which category matches their eligibility and research plans.
Also See: UK SSI Fellowship Programme 2027 – £4,000 Flexible Funding
Who Can Apply
The fellowships are open to foreign postdoctoral researchers who have the support of a qualified host researcher at an eligible Japanese university or research institution.
Strong candidates usually show:
- A solid academic and research record
- A doctoral degree (or expectation of receiving one by the start of the fellowship) or equivalent qualification
- A clear collaborative research proposal
- Confirmed support from a Japanese host researcher and institution
- Potential to contribute to international scientific collaboration
Applications cannot be submitted directly by the candidate. The Japanese host institution must submit the proposal on the applicant’s behalf.
Research Fields
JSPS accepts applications across the full range of academic disciplines, including:
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering and Technology
- Medical and Health Sciences
- Agricultural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Interdisciplinary research
Proposals should align with the expertise of the prospective host laboratory and address meaningful scientific or societal questions.
Application Process
The process requires close collaboration with a Japanese host:
- Identify and contact a suitable host researcher in Japan
- Develop a joint research proposal
- Complete the required application forms
- Obtain institutional approval from the host university or research institute
- Host institution submits the application through the JSPS Electronic Application System
Many Japanese institutions set internal deadlines that can be more than one month earlier than the official JSPS deadline. Early contact with potential hosts is essential.
Required Documents
Typical materials include:
- Form 1 completed by the Japanese host researcher
- Form 2 completed by the foreign candidate
- Letter of Recommendation
- Supporting institutional documentation submitted through the electronic system
All materials must follow the official JSPS instructions for the relevant fellowship category.
Financial Support (Typical Terms)
Successful Fellows generally receive:
- Round-trip airfare
- Monthly maintenance allowance (JPY 362,000 for PhD holders under standard terms)
- Settling-in allowance (JPY 200,000 for stays of three months or longer)
- Research support allowance
- Overseas travel insurance
Exact amounts and conditions depend on the fellowship category and tenure. Full details are provided in the official programme guidelines.
Important Deadline
Short-term (PE) First Call deadline:
25 September 2026 at 5:00 p.m. (Japan Standard Time)
Additional recruitment rounds for Short term (PE) and Standard programmes follow later schedules. Always confirm the latest dates on the official JSPS website.
Why This Fellowship Matters
Fellows gain access to world class laboratories research facilities and academic networks in Japan while working under the guidance of established researchers. The program supports high quality collaborative research international visibility and long term academic partnerships.
It is especially valuable for early career researchers who want to grow their global research profile publish joint work and build lasting connections across different fields.
How to Apply for JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027
Start by contacting potential host researchers in Japan as early as possible. Once a host is secured, prepare the joint proposal and forms according to the official guidelines.
Official information, application forms and the Electronic Application System are available on the JSPS website:
https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-fellow/application.html
All submissions must go through the Japanese host institution.