The JSPS–UNU Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 offers early-career researchers a prestigious opportunity to conduct advanced, sustainability-focused research in Japan. Organized by the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) in partnership with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), this fellowship is designed for scholars aiming to make a global impact through interdisciplinary research in areas such as climate change governance, biodiversity, water and resource management, and innovation in education.

Fellows will spend up to 24 months at a Japanese university or research institution, working under the supervision of a host researcher and in cooperation with UNU-IAS in Tokyo. The programme emphasizes policy relevance, interdisciplinary approaches, and research with global impact, particularly supporting scholars from the developing world. Applicants must align their research proposals with one of the four UNU-IAS thematic programmes: Governance for Climate Change & Sustainable Development, Biodiversity & Society, Water & Resource Management, or Innovation & Education.

Eligibility requirements include holding a PhD awarded on or after 2 April 2020 (or completing by July 2026), not being a Japanese national or permanent resident, not having previously received a JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship, and being a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Japan. Candidates must secure a confirmed host researcher at an eligible Japanese institution prior to applying, demonstrate strong research credentials, and submit a clear, policy-oriented research proposal. Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of other languages is advantageous.

The fellowship is fully funded for up to 24 months, covering stipend and research support. The application deadline is 31 January 2026 (JST). For more details and to apply, visit the official programme page.