Matsumae International Foundation Research Fellowship 2026

The Matsumae International Foundation Research Fellowship is a postdoctoral research programme offered by the Matsumae International Foundation in Japan. It supports non-Japanese researchers who wish to carry out research at a Japanese host institution while building international academic exchange and mutual understanding.

This fellowship is designed for postdoctoral-level researchers and is typically open in fields such as agriculture, natural science, engineering, and medicine. Applicants must first secure acceptance from a host institution in Japan, which may include universities or national research institutes, before submitting their fellowship application.

The programme is fully funded based on the referenced postings. Support includes a monthly allowance for living and research expenses, an arrival fund, round-trip economy airfare between the applicant's nearest international airport and Tokyo, overseas travel insurance, and a study tour to Hiroshima. The fellowship is intended to help cover essential living costs and research-related activity during the stay in Japan.

To be eligible, applicants must be non-Japanese nationals, hold a Ph.D. at the time of application, and generally be age 45 or younger. The programme also expects applicants to have a full-time position in their home country and to plan to return there after the fellowship. Candidates with a past or current long-term stay in Japan are usually not eligible, although short visits such as tourism or conference attendance may be acceptable.

Applications are generally made through the foundation after obtaining consent from a Japanese host. Prospective applicants should review the latest official guidance carefully, prepare their research plan and supporting documents, and confirm all current conditions directly with the foundation before applying.