MIF Research Fellowship in Japan 2026? Are you a researcher looking to advance your work in Japan? The Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) Research Fellowship Program 2026 offers a unique opportunity for international scholars to conduct advanced research in one of the world’s leading scientific hubs. With the application window now open, here’s everything you need to know to submit a successful application. Firstly, the MIF fellowship is designed to foster international collaboration and cultural exchange. It welcomes applicants from around the world, excluding Japanese nationals, who are committed to contributing to the development of their home countries after the fellowship period.
Moreover, the program emphasizes research fields like natural sciences, engineering, and medicine, making it ideal for Ph.D. holders in those disciplines. Fellows will benefit from Japan’s cutting-edge facilities and academic mentorship, all while immersing themselves in the rich Japanese culture.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, you must:
- Hold a Ph.D. at the time of application.
- Be 45 years old or younger (born in or after 1980).
- Demonstrate strong proficiency in English or Japanese.
- Have no prior long-term stay in Japan.
- Secure acceptance from a host institution in Japan before applying.
- Be employed in your home country and intend to return post-fellowship.
This strict eligibility ensures that candidates are both academically strong and aligned with the foundation’s mission of global academic cooperation.
Application Process
Applicants for the MIF Research Fellowship Japan must submit their application via email to [email protected] between June 1–30, 2025 (Japan Standard Time). Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Required documents include:
- Application Form (downloadable from MIF’s website)
- Reason for Application (maximum 500 words)
- Research Plan (up to 5 pages)
- CV and List of Publications (highlight the most relevant in yellow)
- Recommendation Letter from your current institution
- Ph.D. Certificate (with English translation, if applicable)
Make sure all documents are in English and sent in separate PDF files, not combined into one.
What Happens Next?
The screening process runs until November 2025, and successful candidates will receive a formal grant letter. The fellowship itself runs for six months between June 2026 and March 2027. If you’re a driven researcher eager to broaden your international experience, don’t miss this opportunity to join the MIF community. Start preparing your documents today, and give your career the global edge it deserves. APPLY
