Applications are now open for the Matsumae International Research Fellowship 2027 in Japan, a prestigious fully funded fellowship for international researchers seeking to conduct advanced research at leading Japanese universities and research institutions.
Organized by the Matsumae International Foundation (MIF), the fellowship aims to promote international cooperation, academic exchange, and global scientific advancement by providing researchers with the opportunity to undertake research in Japan for six months. Approximately 15 researchers will be selected for the 2027 cohort.
Fellowship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | Matsumae International Research Fellowship 2027 |
| Host Country | Japan |
| Host Organization | Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) |
| Fellowship Type | Fully Funded Research Fellowship |
| Duration | 6 Months |
| Fellowship Period | June 2027 – March 2028 |
| Number of Fellowships | Approximately 15 |
| Eligible Applicants | International Researchers |
| Application Deadline | 30 June 2026 |
About the Fellowship
The Matsumae International Foundation was established to strengthen international understanding through academic and scientific cooperation. The fellowship enables outstanding researchers from around the world to conduct research in Japan while fostering long-term academic relationships and cultural exchange.
Selected fellows will undertake research at a Japanese university, national research institute, or equivalent research facility under the supervision of a host researcher. Applicants are responsible for securing acceptance from a host institution before applying.
Fellowship Benefits
The Matsumae International Research Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
Monthly Research Allowance
Successful fellows will receive:
- JPY 220,000 per month for living and research expenses.
Arrival Grant
Recipients will receive:
- JPY 120,000 arrival allowance to assist with initial settlement expenses in Japan.
Round-Trip Airfare
The fellowship covers:
- Economy-class round-trip international airfare between the fellow’s home country and Japan.
Insurance Coverage
Participants receive insurance coverage throughout their fellowship stay.
Research Environment
Fellows gain access to:
- World-class research facilities
- Collaboration with Japanese researchers
- International academic networks
- Advanced research infrastructure
- Cross-cultural learning opportunities
Research Fields
The fellowship primarily supports research in:
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- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Agriculture
Researchers working in related disciplines may also be considered depending on the proposed research project and host institution.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Matsumae International Research Fellowship 2027, applicants must:
- Hold a PhD degree at the time of application.
- Be a citizen of a country other than Japan.
- Be born in 1982 or later.
- Be employed in their home country at the time of application.
- Intend to return to their home country after completing the fellowship.
- Obtain an invitation or acceptance letter from a Japanese host institution before applying.
- Have not had long-term previous stays in Japan.
- Demonstrate strong research achievements and future potential.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed Application Form
- Recent Passport Photograph
- Reason for Application Statement (up to 500 words)
- Detailed Research Plan (maximum five pages)
- Invitation or Acceptance Letter from Host Institution
- Academic and Professional Documents
- Supporting Materials as specified by MIF
All documents must be submitted in English and sent electronically in PDF format.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Academic qualifications
- Research achievements
- Quality and feasibility of the proposed research
- Potential contribution to scientific development
- Benefits of the research to the applicant’s home country
- Strength of collaboration with the Japanese host institution
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
- Identify a suitable Japanese host university or research institution.
- Obtain formal acceptance from a host researcher or institution.
- Download the official application documents.
- Complete all required forms and supporting materials.
- Submit the application package via email to the Matsumae International Foundation.
Applications must be submitted during the official application period.
Application Period
Opening Date: 1 June 2026
Deadline: 30 June 2026 (Japan Standard Time)
Applications submitted before or after the official application period will not be accepted.
Result Announcement
Successful applicants are expected to be announced on the MIF website in late November 2026. Grant letters will be issued to selected fellows thereafter.
Why You Should Apply
The Matsumae International Research Fellowship is one of Japan’s most respected research programs for international scholars. It provides substantial financial support, access to leading research institutions, and opportunities to collaborate with world-class experts while experiencing Japan’s rich academic and cultural environment.
For researchers seeking international exposure, academic collaboration, and career advancement, this fellowship offers an exceptional platform to expand their research impact on a global scale.
Conclusion
The Matsumae International Research Fellowship 2027 in Japan is an outstanding fully funded opportunity for PhD holders and researchers looking to conduct advanced research in one of the world’s leading scientific environments.
With a monthly allowance of JPY 220,000, arrival grant, airfare coverage, insurance, and access to top-tier research institutions, the fellowship provides everything needed for a productive and rewarding research experience in Japan. Researchers interested in natural sciences, engineering, medicine, and agriculture are strongly encouraged to apply before the deadline.
