Application Deadline: 31 January 2026
The 2026 JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme, a prestigious and fully funded opportunity for early-career researchers to conduct advanced research in sustainability in Japan. Jointly organized by the United Nations University (UNU) and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), this fellowship supports highly qualified scholars, particularly from the developing world. Since its launch at the UNU Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) in 1996, the programme has supported more than 250 young researchers, with nearly 70% coming from developing countries. As a result, it has become one of the most impactful postdoctoral programmes in sustainability research worldwide.
About the JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme
The JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme provides promising researchers with the opportunity to pursue policy-relevant, multidisciplinary research in sustainability. Fellows work under the supervision of host researchers at leading Japanese universities and research institutions, while collaborating closely with UNU-IAS.
Importantly, the programme focuses on people, not institutions. It allows fellows to deepen their expertise, expand their global research networks, and contribute directly to international policy discussions on sustainable development.
UNU-IAS Tokyo acts as the official nominating authority, ensuring strong academic alignment between the fellow, the host researcher, and JSPS.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD degree received on or after 2 April 2020
(maternity/paternity leave deducted; 4 weeks counted as one month) - Or be scheduled to receive a doctoral diploma by July 2026 after a successful dissertation defense
- Be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
However, the following candidates are not eligible:
- Japanese nationals (including dual citizens)
- Permanent residents of Japan
- Previous recipients of JSPS Standard or Pathway Postdoctoral Fellowships
Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support
The JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship offers a competitive funding package that allows fellows to focus fully on research.
Financial Coverage
- Round-trip airfare (based on JSPS regulations)
- Monthly maintenance allowance: JPY 362,000
- Settling-in allowance: JPY 200,000
- Overseas travel insurance
Additionally, host researchers may apply for a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research, which covers expenses related to cooperative research.
⚠️ Note: Fellows already residing in Japan or those who obtain resident status before the fellowship begins will not receive airfare or settling-in support.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their online application by 31 January 2026 (23:59 JST). Applications must be completed in English.
Before applying, applicants must secure a host researcher at an eligible Japanese institution. Since the UNU-IAS Fellowship Committee does not assist with host matching, applicants must independently contact and confirm supervision agreements. Notably, UNU-IAS researchers cannot serve as host researchers.
After the deadline:
- The Fellowship Committee reviews all applications
- Shortlisted candidates attend an online interview
- UNU-IAS reconfirms supervision agreements with host researchers
Nomination and Selection Process
UNU-IAS nominates candidates to JSPS based on two main criteria:
- Quality and relevance of the research proposal
- Academic merit and research potential
UNU contacts successful candidates by May 2026, after which nominees submit official documents to JSPS through UNU-IAS. Final JSPS decisions may take up to three months.
Duration of the Fellowship
- Duration: 24 months (full-month units)
- Latest start date: 30 November 2026
- Fellows must reside continuously in Japan throughout the fellowship period
Research Areas and Thematic Programmes
Fellows must conduct research in one of the following UNU-IAS thematic areas. Each project must be policy-relevant and integrate gender considerations.
Governance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (GCSD)
This programme focuses on climate governance, SDGs, decarbonization strategies, food systems, carbon markets, and climate-security linkages. GCSD also manages the Diploma Programme on the Paris Agreement (SPA).
Required background: Sustainability-related PhD, strong publication record, policy engagement skills, and fluency in English.
Biodiversity & Society (BDS)
BDS explores the relationship between biodiversity and human well-being through landscape approaches, social-ecological resilience, and transformative governance. Research contributes to global frameworks such as CBD, IPBES, and the 2030 Agenda.
Required background: Applied social or environmental sciences, field research experience, and strong research output.
Water & Resource Management (WRM)
WRM supports global efforts to achieve SDG 6 by advancing research on water governance, sanitation, climate change, gender, transboundary waters, and the water-food-energy nexus.
Required background: Water science, environmental studies, public health, governance, or related fields.
Innovation & Education (IVE)
IVE promotes innovative and inclusive education for sustainable development. Current research includes AI and education, climate competencies, lifelong learning, and action-oriented pedagogies.
Required background: Education, educational technology, computer science, or environmental policy, with strong communication skills.
For researchers committed to shaping sustainable futures, this programme offers both academic depth and real-world impact.
For questions and inquiries, contact: fellowshi[email protected]
