Research Fellowship in Japan
A globally competitive research fellowship in Japan offers life science graduates a unique opportunity to conduct high-impact research within world-class laboratories. Through internationally recognized programs such as JSPS International Fellowships, researchers gain access to cutting-edge infrastructure, leading mentors, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. This fellowship opportunity for life science graduates supports innovation, global networking, and academic excellence while advancing Japan’s leadership in scientific research.
About JSPS
The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) is Japan’s leading funding agency dedicated to advancing academic research across all scientific disciplines. Through its globally respected JSPS International Fellowships, JSPS fosters international collaboration, supports researcher mobility, and strengthens Japan’s role in global scientific innovation—particularly in life sciences and emerging technologies.
1. Program Overview
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Organization: Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)
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Purpose:
To provide excellent overseas researchers opportunities to conduct collaborative research in Japan, promote international academic exchange, and advance science. -
Fields Covered:
All fields in: Natural Sciences
2. Fellowship Categories
| Program Type | Category | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postdoctoral Fellowship | Standard [P] | Cooperative research under host supervision at Japanese institutions | 12–24 months |
| Short-term [PE] | Cooperative research for researchers from US, Canada & Europe | 1–12 months | |
| Invitational Fellowship | Long-term [L] | Long-term collaborative research with Japanese researchers | 2–10 months |
| Short-term [S] | Discussions, lectures, opinion exchange | 14–60 days |
3. Research Integrity, Ethics, and Compliance
JSPS places strong emphasis on ethical research conduct and compliance with laws and regulations.
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False Information and Misconduct
Applications may be rejected or fellowships withdrawn if JSPS determines that:
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- Information has been falsified or plagiarized
- Signatures are forged
- Research misconduct has occurred (fabrication, falsification, plagiarism)
- Research funds are misused
- Human rights violations occur, including harassment or discrimination
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Research Ethics Education
Host institutions are required to:
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- Provide research ethics education to invited researchers
- Ensure candidates complete appropriate ethics training programs
Recommended learning resources include JSPS ethics materials, e-learning programs, and institutional courses based on MEXT guidelines.
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Use of Generative AI
Applicants should be aware that:
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- Use of generative AI tools may pose risks of copyright infringement
- Personal or confidential data may unintentionally be disclosed
- Responsibility for AI usage lies entirely with the applicant
Handling of Personal Information
JSPS strictly manages personal data in accordance with:
- Japan’s Act on the Protection of Personal Information
- GDPR and UK GDPR (for EU and UK-based researchers)
If selected, the following information may be publicly disclosed:
- Fellow’s name and nationality
- Affiliated institution and title
- Research theme
- Fellowship period
- Host researcher and host institution
Health and Immigration Requirements
Japan Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (JPETS)
Pre-entry tuberculosis screening is required for nationals of specific countries who plan to stay in Japan for medium- to long-term periods. Applicable countries currently include:
- Philippines
- Vietnam
- Indonesia*
- Nepal
- Myanmar*
- China*
(*Implementation dates for some countries are subject to confirmation.)
Application Procedure of Research Fellowship
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Application System
All applications must be submitted via the JSPS Electronic Application System for International Collaborations. Paper-based submissions are not accepted.
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Application Roles
- Applicant: Japanese host researcher
- Candidate: Invited overseas researcher
- Host Institution: Submits applications to JSPS after internal approval
- Parallel Application Restrictions
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- One application per candidate per call
- Candidates may apply for only one fellowship category per fiscal year
- Host researchers are subject to limits on the number of candidates they may nominate
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Obligations After Selection
Successful applicants, fellows, and host institutions must:
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- Provide a suitable research environment
- Assist with visa and living arrangements
- Prevent human rights violations and research misconduct
- Submit required research reports on time
- Acknowledge JSPS support in all publications
Failure to comply may result in fellowship termination or repayment of funds.
Selection Process of Research Fellowship
Selection is conducted by the JSPS International Program Committee through:
- Document Review
- Panel Review
Evaluation criteria include:
- Scientific merit and originality
- Feasibility of the research plan
- Expected contribution to international collaboration
- Adequacy of the host institution’s research environment
- Balanced representation of countries and disciplines
Notes for Applicants
- Fellowship periods must be continuous
- Temporary absences from Japan require JSPS approval
- Allowances are intended solely to support research-related living costs
Additional Resources About Research Fellowship
- Program Guidelines
- Application Instructions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review all official JSPS documentation carefully before applying.
