The Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) is now accepting applications for its Research Fellowship Program 2026, offering international researchers a unique opportunity to conduct research in Japan. This highly selective fellowship aims to foster academic excellence, international collaboration, and goodwill between Japan and researchers worldwide.
Program Overview
The Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) was established in 1979 with a vision to advance global peace through scientific and cultural exchanges. The foundation provides promising researchers the chance to enhance their expertise in Japan while building long-lasting ties between their home countries and Japan. This initiative aligns with the ideals of Dr. Shigeyoshi Matsumae (1901–1991), the founder of MIF, who believed that nurturing academic exchanges is a step toward achieving a peaceful and secure world.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive support, including:
- Monthly Allowance: JPY 220,000 for research and living expenses in Japan.
- Arrival Fund: JPY 120,000 to cover initial settlement costs.
- Round-trip Airfare: Economy-class ticket between the applicant’s home country and Japan.
- Insurance Coverage: Travel insurance, including medical treatment and death benefits.
- Study Tour: A cultural and technological study tour in Japan to deepen participants’ understanding of the country and its advancements.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must be of non-Japanese nationality.
- Must hold a Ph.D. (Doctoral Degree) at the time of application.
- Must be 45 years old or younger (born in or after 1980).
- Must possess sufficient English or Japanese proficiency.
- Must secure acceptance from a host institution in Japan before applying.
- Should not have previous long-term experience in Japan (except short stays for conferences or tourism).
- Must be employed in their home country and committed to returning after completing the fellowship to contribute to national development.
Eligible Research Fields
The fellowship primarily supports research in Natural Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Applicants are free to choose their research topics in collaboration with their host professors/scholars in Japan.
Fellowship Duration and Number of Recipients
- Duration: Six months between June 2026 and March 2027.
- Number of Fellowships: Approximately 15 recipients.
- Applicants must specify their desired research period in the application form (e.g., September 2026 to February 2027).
Apply: https://www.mif-japan.org/en/fellowship/announcement/.
The last date to apply for Matsumae International Foundation Research Fellowship Program 2026 is June 30, 2025 and the results will be announced in late November 2025.