The UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme 2026 is now accepting applications from outstanding young researchers across eligible countries. Also known as the UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships Programme, this prestigious initiative offers up to US$10,000 to support postgraduate research at leading universities and research institutions in Japan. Funded by the Government of Japan and administered by UNESCO, the fellowship aims to strengthen global research capacity while promoting international academic collaboration. If you are a young researcher with an innovative research proposal in heritage conservation, artificial intelligence, or sustainable development, this could be your opportunity to advance your academic career.
Established in 2001 through the Japanese Funds-in-Trust for the Capacity-Building of Human Resources, the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme has supported 291 young researchers from 101 countries.
For the 2026 cycle, UNESCO and the Government of Japan will award 10 fellowships to highly qualified researchers from Africa, Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Ukraine, and Türkiye.
Moreover, fellows will conduct research at Japanese universities and research institutions while collaborating with renowned academics and expanding their international research networks.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a fellowship grant of up to US$10,000 to support their research stay in Japan.
The grant may cover:
- International and domestic travel
- Accommodation
- Medical insurance
- Meals and daily living expenses
- Local transportation
- Approved research-related costs
However, the fellowship does not cover:
- Tuition fees
- Purchase of computers or equipment
- Publication costs
- Conference participation, unless directly linked to the approved research
Additionally, UNESCO will arrange mandatory medical insurance for all selected fellows, and the insurance cost will be deducted from the fellowship grant.
Fellowship Duration
Selected researchers will undertake research in Japan for:
- Minimum: 3 months
- Maximum: 9 months
The fellowship period begins in February 2027 and must conclude no later than December 2027.
Research Areas
Applicants must submit research proposals in one primary research area and choose a corresponding sub-area.
Eligible research themes include:
Heritage Conservation and Management
Research focused on preserving and managing cultural and natural heritage.
AI for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Climate Action
Projects that apply artificial intelligence to improve environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Ethical, Inclusive, and Human-Centred AI for Sustainable Development
Research exploring responsible AI that promotes equity, ethics, and sustainable development.
AI for Sustainable Cities, Infrastructure, and Societal Resilience
Innovative studies addressing urban development, infrastructure, and resilient communities through AI.
AI and Education
Projects that examine how artificial intelligence can improve teaching, learning, and educational systems.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Be nationals of one of the invited Member States or Associate Members
- Be 40 years old or younger at the time of application
- Hold at least a Master’s degree in a relevant field
- Demonstrate strong academic and research potential
- Show proficiency in the language required by the selected Japanese host institution
- Obtain an official acceptance letter from an academic supervisor at a Japanese university or research institution
Eligible Countries
The fellowship is open to applicants from numerous countries across:
- Africa (47 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and others)
- Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
- Bahrain
- Türkiye
- Ukraine
- Selected countries and territories across the Caribbean and the Pacific
Applicants should consult Annex 1 for the complete list of eligible countries.
How to Apply
Applying for the fellowship involves several important steps.
Step 1: Review the Application Guide
Read the official Application Guide carefully to understand the eligibility requirements and submission process.
Step 2: Contact Your National Commission for UNESCO
Next, contact the UNESCO National Commission in your country to learn about national application procedures.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Applicants must prepare:
- Completed application form
- Research proposal
- Academic certificates
- Recommendation letter
- Acceptance letter from a Japanese host institution
- Language proficiency certificate
Step 4: Submit to Your National Commission
Submit your application at least two weeks before the national deadline.
Step 5: Submit to UNESCO
If your National Commission nominates you, send your online application and supporting documents to:
Step 6: Final Submission
The National Commission for UNESCO must submit your nomination to UNESCO no later than 30 September 2026 (midnight Paris time).
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Why You Should Apply
The UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme provides much more than financial support. It allows emerging researchers to collaborate with world-class institutions, strengthen their academic expertise, and contribute innovative solutions to global challenges.
Whether your research focuses on artificial intelligence, sustainable development, heritage conservation, or education, this fellowship offers an exceptional platform to advance your work while gaining international experience. If you meet the eligibility requirements and have a strong research proposal, don’t miss this opportunity.
Prepare your application, secure a Japanese academic supervisor, and submit your nomination before 30 September 2026.
Your research could help shape a more sustainable and innovative future while opening new doors for your academic career. For more information, click here.
Deadline: 30 September 2026.
