Role Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship (Sustainability Research)
Location: Japan (Various Host Institutions)
Duration: 24 Months
Stipend: JPY 362,000 per month (+ Airfare & Settling-in Allowance)
Deadline: January 31, 2026 (23:59 JST)
Application Status: Open Now
Overview of the Opportunity
The JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme is a prestigious joint initiative by the United Nations University (UNU) and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). It is designed to provide promising young researchers with the opportunity to conduct advanced research in sustainability in Japan.
This program is specifically aimed at scholars from the developing world (though open to countries with diplomatic relations with Japan). Since 1996, over 250 young researchers have benefited from this collaboration. Fellows conduct their research under the supervision of a host researcher at a Japanese university or research institution, with UNU-IAS acting as the nominating authority.
Research Areas (Thematic Programmes)
Fellows must conduct research under one of the following four thematic areas. Note: All proposals must be policy-relevant and incorporate gender issues.
1. Governance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (GCSD)
- Focus: Governance for climate mitigation/adaptation, SDGs, international law, climate security, and carbon markets.
- Goal: Produce knowledge that drives just transformation towards resilient socio-economic systems.
2. Biodiversity & Society (BDS)
- Focus: Landscape approaches, sustainable food systems, circular economy, and green infrastructure.
- Goal: Understand the links between biodiversity and human well-being (SATOYAMA Initiative).
3. Water & Resource Management (WRM)
- Focus: Water and climate change, water quality, WASH (water, sanitation, hygiene), and the water-food-energy nexus.
- Goal: Contribute to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
4. Innovation & Education (IVE)
- Focus: Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), AI in higher education, and climate competency for teachers.
- Goal: Translate global goals into local educational actions.
Financial Benefits & Terms
The fellowship offers a generous financial package to support researchers in Japan.
- Monthly Maintenance Allowance: JPY 362,000
- Settling-in Allowance: JPY 200,000 (one-time).
- Travel: Round-trip air ticket to Japan.
- Insurance: Overseas travel insurance provided.
- Research Grant: Eligibility to apply for a "Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research" (via host researcher).
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet strict academic and citizenship requirements.
1. Academic Status
- Doctoral Degree: You must have received your PhD on or after April 2, 2020 (within the past 6 years).
- Pending PhD: You are also eligible if you are scheduled to receive your degree by July 2026.
- Experience: Must have professional/research experience.
2. Citizenship
- Eligible: Citizens of countries that have diplomatic relations with Japan.
- Ineligible: Japanese nationals (including dual citizens) and Permanent Residents of Japan are NOT eligible.
3. Host Researcher (Crucial)
- Requirement: You must confirm a host researcher at a Japanese institution before applying. UNU-IAS does not assist in finding a host.
Timeline & Duration
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026.
- Notification: Successful candidates contacted by May 2026.
- Fellowship Start: Must start in Japan by November 30, 2026.
- Duration: 24 months (2 years).
How to Apply
The application process involves securing a host and submitting your documents to UNU-IAS.
- Find a Host: Negotiate an agreement with a professor at a Japanese university.
- Apply Online: Fill out the application form in English by the deadline.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online.