JSPS Short-Term Research Fellowships: Pre- and Post-doctoral62 Views

The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) has long supported international academic collaboration by providing opportunities for scholars to conduct cutting-edge research in Japan. One of its most inclusive programs, the Short-term Program (PA), invites pre- and post-doctoral researchers from ASEAN and African nations to engage in collaborative research projects at Japanese universities or public research institutions. The program, which offers placements ranging from 1 to 12 months, is designed to promote the internationalization of Japan’s research environment while fostering scientific ties between Japan and emerging academic regions.

The JSPS Short-term Fellowships (PA) offers early-career researchers from ASEAN and African countries a fully funded opportunity to conduct research in Japan. Scholars can collaborate with top Japanese institutions for up to 12 months, supported with travel, stipend, and academic resources, fostering global scientific partnerships and innovation.

What Is the JSPS Short-Term Program (PA)?

The JSPS Short-term Program (PA) is a targeted research mobility scheme under the broader framework of JSPS International Fellowships. This program is structured to enable doctoral students and early-career researchers from ASEAN and African countries to spend up to one year in Japan, conducting research in collaboration with a host researcher.

Through this initiative, JSPS aims to:

• • Enhance bilateral scientific cooperation

  • Support career development for emerging researchers

  • Facilitate exposure to advanced research methodologies

  • Cultivate academic exchange between Japan and partner countries

Participants benefit from hands-on access to cutting-edge facilities and are integrated into Japan’s robust academic networks. The program fosters mutual learning, strengthens research capacity in partner nations, and contributes to global knowledge-sharing.

Eligible Countries and Regions

The fellowship is exclusively available to researchers from the following geographic regions:

ASEAN Member Countries:

Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

African Nations:

More than 50 eligible African countries, including Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and others.

Applicants must either be citizens or hold permanent residency status in one of the eligible countries. In addition, individuals with three or more continuous years of research experience at a university or recognized institution in one of these regions may qualify, even if they are not citizens.

Fellowship Duration

One of the most flexible aspects of this program is the research duration, which can be tailored according to the project’s scope and host institution’s timeline. Fellows can choose a research stay ranging from 1 to 12 months, allowing for both exploratory visits and more intensive research engagements. The program aligns with academic calendars and institutional readiness in Japan, accommodating research across various disciplines.

This flexibility ensures compatibility with institutional priorities, lab schedules, and individual research needs, making it accessible to a wide range of scholars.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure academic quality and regional representation, JSPS has set forth specific eligibility requirements:

General Requirements

• • Must be a citizen or permanent resident of an eligible ASEAN or African country, or

  • Must have at least three years of continuous research experience at a recognized university or research institute within the region.

Academic Requirements

• • Applicants must either:

  • Hold a Ph.D. awarded within the last six years, or

  • Be enrolled in a Ph.D. program and expected to graduate within two years from the start of the fellowship.

Restrictions

• • Researchers who are residing in Japan at the time of application are not eligible.

  • Scholars who have previously been awarded any JSPS fellowship (including PE, PA, PU, or Standard) are not eligible to reapply under this specific scheme.

Application Process

Applications for the JSPS Short-term PA Program must be submitted via official overseas nominating authorities, not directly to JSPS. The nominating institutions vary by region:

ASEAN Applicants

• • Apply through the JSPS Bangkok Office, in cooperation with the ASEAN University Network (AUN).

  • Application deadline to local institutions typically falls around August 15, 2025.

  • Final nominations must reach JSPS by December 1, 2025.

African Applicants

• • North African countries (e.g., Egypt): Apply via JSPS Cairo Research Station.

  • Sub-Saharan countries: Apply through the JSPS Nairobi Research Station.

  • Specific deadlines may vary by country; applicants are encouraged to consult their local nominating body.

After nomination, the applicant and the Japanese host must jointly prepare the final application dossier for review by JSPS.

Timeline for FY2026

The following timeline applies to ASEAN applicants. Applicants from Africa should confirm region-specific timelines with their nominating authority.

• • August 15, 2025 – Application submission to home institution.

  • December 1, 2025 – Nomination deadline to JSPS.

  • February–March 2026 – Selection results announced.

  • April 2026 to March 2027 – Research tenure in Japan.

It is recommended that applicants begin discussions with potential host researchers well in advance to align their proposal and secure institutional support.

Fellowship Benefits

The JSPS Short-term Fellowship (PA) includes comprehensive financial and institutional support, enabling researchers to fully focus on their scholarly activities while in Japan.

Financial and Logistical Support

• • Round-trip international airfare to and from Japan

  • Monthly maintenance allowance for housing, food, and daily living expenses

  • Research support grant for consumables and research materials (provided to the host institution)

  • Accident and health insurance coverage during the fellowship period

Academic and Professional Support

• • Orientation upon arrival through the JSPS Fellows Plaza

  • Optional participation in the Science Dialogue Program, where fellows present their research at Japanese high schools to promote scientific literacy

These benefits are designed to ensure a comfortable, productive, and engaging research experience for every fellow.

Why Choose the JSPS PA Fellowship?

Participating in the JSPS PA Program offers numerous professional and academic advantages, particularly for early-career researchers seeking international exposure. Some compelling reasons to apply include:

1. 1. Access to Japan’s leading universities and research labs, equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

   2. Mentorship from globally recognized Japanese scholars across disciplines.

   3. Opportunities to co-author research publications and build international academic portfolios.

   4. Foundations for long-term collaborations, including future research grants and consortiums.

   5. Exposure to Japanese culture, research ethics, and interdisciplinary innovation.

The program serves as a platform for elevating both individual careers and the research capacity of home institutions.

Quick Summary Table

Conclusion

The JSPS Short-term Program (PA) stands as a vital academic bridge, offering early-career researchers from ASEAN and African countries the chance to contribute to global science through Japanese collaborations. With generous funding, institutional support, and meaningful academic exposure, it empowers scholars to expand their horizons and amplify their research impact. Interested candidates should consult their local nominating body and begin preparations early to seize this exceptional opportunity.

References:

1. JSPS Fellowship Portal: https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-fellow/

2. ASEAN University Network (AUN): https://www.aunsec.org

FAQs for the JSPS Short-Term Program (PA)