UNESCO Japan Young Researchers Fellowships Programme 2026

The UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers' Fellowships Programme, also known as the UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships Programme, is a prestigious opportunity for young researchers to conduct postgraduate research in Japan. Supported by the Government of Japan and UNESCO, this program aims to strengthen research capacity, encourage international academic collaboration, and support innovative research contributing to global sustainable development. For the 2026 cycle, 10 fellowships will be awarded. The research period is from February 2027 onwards, to be completed by December 2027.

This is a fully-funded fellowship. Fellows will receive a grant of up to US$10,000 to cover research-related expenses. The grant also covers international and domestic travel expenses, accommodation, medical insurance arranged by UNESCO, support for meals, local transportation, and other living expenses in Japan. Eligible research-related costs may also be covered. Participants will conduct research for three to nine months at leading Japanese universities and research institutions under the supervision of experienced academic mentors.

Applicants must be nationals of one of the invited UNESCO Member States or Associate Members. For the 2026 cycle, this specifically includes young researchers from Africa (including Ethiopia), Small Island Developing States, Ukraine, and Türkiye. Applicants must be no more than 40 years old at the time of application. Candidates must hold at least a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic and research potential. Candidates must have sufficient proficiency in the language of instruction or supervision at the proposed Japanese host institution. Applicants must obtain an acceptance letter from an academic supervisor at a Japanese university or research institution before applying.

Required documents include a completed application form, a detailed research proposal, an acceptance letter from an academic supervisor at a Japanese university or research institution, a recommendation letter, academic transcripts and degree certificates, a language proficiency certificate (if required by the host institution), and any other supporting documents mentioned in the official application guidelines.

1. Before applying, carefully read the official application guidelines available on the UNESCO website. 2. Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements. 3. Contact the National Commission for UNESCO in your home country (e.g., Ethiopia) to learn about their specific national application process and internal deadlines. 4. Prepare all the required application documents, including your research proposal. 5. Obtain an acceptance letter from a supervisor at a Japanese university or research institution. This is a mandatory prerequisite. 6. Submit your complete application to the National Commission for UNESCO in your country at least two weeks before its internal deadline. 7. Only applications nominated by the National Commission for UNESCO will be accepted by UNESCO. If nominated, you will then submit the online application form and supporting documents directly to UNESCO.

The final selection of the 10 fellows will be made by the Government of Japan based on recommendations from a Selection Committee comprising experts from UNESCO and Japan. The research areas supported include Heritage Conservation and Management; AI for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Climate Action; Ethical, Inclusive, and Human-Centred AI for Sustainable Development; AI for Sustainable Cities, Infrastructure, and Societal Resilience; and AI and Education.