Researchers Fellowship Programme 2026 | Apply Now
Researchers fellowship opportunities are now open through the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme 2026. Supported by the Government of Japan, this prestigious fellowship offers young researchers the opportunity to conduct postgraduate research at leading Japanese universities and research institutions. If you are looking for UNESCO careers, international research exposure, or a fellowship for masters students and early-career researchers, this programme offers funding of up to US$10,000 for innovative research in AI, sustainable development, and heritage conservation.
- Position: UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellow (2026 Cycle)
- Fellowship Location: Host Country: Japan (Research will be conducted at Japanese universities and research institutions)
About the UNESCO
Researchers fellowship opportunities are being offered through UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. UNESCO works to promote international cooperation through education, science, culture, and communication. Established in 2001 under the Japanese Funds-in-Trust for the Capacity-Building of Human Resources, the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme (UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships Programme) is supported by the Government of Japan to strengthen global research capacity and encourage academic collaboration.
Since its launch, the programme has supported 291 young researchers from 101 countries, helping them pursue postgraduate research while contributing to international knowledge exchange. This initiative is also an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in UNESCO careers and global research collaborations.
Fellowship Details
Researchers fellowship applications are invited for the Cycle 2026 of the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme.
- Fellowship Available: 10
- Fellowship Grant: Up to US$10,000
- Duration: 3–9 Months
- Fellowship Period: February 2027 – December 2027
- Application Mode: Through National Commissions for UNESCO
Researchers Fellowship Description
Researchers fellowship recipients will undertake postgraduate research in Japan under the supervision of an academic mentor at a Japanese university or research institution. The programme supports high-quality interdisciplinary research that aligns with UNESCO’s mission and contributes to solving global challenges.
The fellowship focuses on:
- Heritage Conservation and Management
- AI for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Climate Action
- Ethical, Inclusive and Human-Centred AI for Sustainable Development
- AI for Sustainable Cities, Infrastructure and Societal Resilience
- AI and Education
This programme is particularly valuable for candidates seeking UNESCO careers or a prestigious fellowship for masters students and early-career researchers.
Qualifications
Researchers Fellowship qualifications include:
- Be nationals of one of the invited Member States or Associate Members.
- Be 40 years of age or younger at the time of application.
- Hold at least a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline.
- Demonstrate strong academic and research potential.
- Have sufficient proficiency in the language of instruction or supervision at the proposed Japanese institution.
- Obtain an acceptance letter from an academic supervisor at a Japanese university or research institution.
This programme is also suitable as a fellowship for masters students who have completed their Master’s degree and are planning postgraduate research.
Eligible Countries
Researchers fellowship applications are invited from eligible Member States and Associate Members across:
- Africa
- Arab States
- Asia and the Pacific
- Latin America and the Caribbean
- Europe (Türkiye and Ukraine)
Applicants should refer to Annex 1 for the complete list of eligible countries.
Researchers Fellowship – Key Responsibilities
- Conduct innovative postgraduate research.
- Work under the supervision of a Japanese academic mentor.
- Complete the approved research project within the fellowship duration.
- Promote international academic collaboration.
- Contribute to research aligned with UNESCO’s strategic priorities.
- Maintain high academic and ethical research standards.
- Submit research outputs as required by the fellowship programme.
The Researchers Fellowship offered through the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity to conduct funded research in Japan. If you’re eligible and looking to advance your research career or explore UNESCO careers, submit your application before 30 September 2026 and take the next step toward global research excellence.
Application Deadline: 30 September 2026
