JSPS–UNU Fellowship 2026 in Japan | Fully Funded Postdoctoral Scholarship

The JSPS–UNU Fellowship 2026 in Japan is one of the most prestigious fully funded postdoctoral fellowships for international researchers seeking advanced research opportunities in Japan. Jointly offered by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and the United Nations University – Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), this fellowship supports high-impact, policy-oriented research addressing global sustainability challenges.

For scholars searching for fully funded fellowships in Japan, UN postdoctoral scholarships 2026, or international research opportunities after PhD, this programme stands out as a top-tier option.

Quick Snapshot: JSPS–UNU Fellowship 2026

About the JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship

The JSPS–UNU Fellowship Programme aims to nurture future global research leaders by providing them with the opportunity to conduct independent research at leading Japanese universities and research institutions. Fellows are formally affiliated with UNU-IAS and work under the mentorship of a Japanese host researcher.

The programme strongly emphasizes policy relevance, sustainability, and interdisciplinary research, aligning academic excellence with real-world impact.

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Priority Research Areas

Applicants must propose research aligned with UNU-IAS strategic themes, including:

• Climate Change & Sustainable Development
• Biodiversity, Ecosystems & Society
• Water Security & Resource Management
• Sustainable Innovation & Education
• Governance, SDGs & Public Policy
• Environmental Law & International Cooperation

Research proposals should demonstrate societal relevance, policy impact, and gender awareness.

Eligibility Criteria

You can apply for the JSPS–UNU Fellowship 2026 if you:

• Hold a PhD degree awarded on or after 2 April 2020, or expect to complete it by July 2026
• Are not a Japanese national or permanent resident
• Are a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan
• Secure a host supervisor at a Japanese institution
• Show strong academic performance and research potential

Financial Coverage (Fully Funded)

This fellowship offers an excellent funding package, making it one of the best postdoctoral fellowships in Japan:

• Monthly living allowance (~ JPY 362,000)
• Round-trip international airfare
• Settling-in allowance
• Health, accident, and travel insurance
• Institutional research support

No application or tuition fees are required.

Is the JSPS–UNU Fellowship Available for Pakistanis?

Yes.
The JSPS–UNU Fellowship 2026 is fully open to Pakistani citizens. Since Pakistan has diplomatic relations with Japan, eligible Pakistani PhD holders can apply without restriction.

This makes it an excellent international research opportunity for Pakistani scholars aiming to work with the United Nations system and Japanese research institutions. Apply Now!