The Matsumae International Foundation (MIF) is offering a prestigious fully funded research fellowship for non-Japanese researchers. This opportunity allows researchers to conduct six months of research at a Japanese host institution in the fields of natural sciences, engineering, medicine, and related areas.

About the Fellowship

Fellowship Duration: Six months between June 2026 and March 2027

Location: Any university, national research institute, or equivalent facility in Japan Number of Fellowships: Approximately 15

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all the following criteria:

• Non-Japanese nationality and alignment with MIF’s core values
• Ph.D. (Doctorate) holder at the time of application
• 45 years old or younger (born in or after 1980)
• Secured acceptance from a host institution in Japan before applying
• Proficient in English or Japanese
• No prior long-term stays in Japan (except for short-term visits like conferences or tourism)
• Currently employed in the home country and committed to returning after the fellowship

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Fellowship Benefits

What’s Covered?

• Monthly Allowance: JPY 220,000 for research and living expenses
• Arrival Fund: JPY 120,000 for initial costs
• Round-Trip Airfare: Economy class from home country to Japan
• Insurance: Comprehensive overseas travel insurance
• Study Tour: Cultural and academic enrichment program in Japan

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via email to application@mif-japan.org.

Application Period: June 1 – June 30, 2025 (Japan Standard Time) Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents in English as PDFs:

• Application Form
• Reason for Application
• Research Plan
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) & List of Publications
• Recommendation Letter
• Ph.D. Certificate Copy
• Letter from Host Professor in Japan For more information and application documents, visit the MIF Fellowship Website.

If you are a Malta-based researcher, you are strongly encouraged to apply for this opportunity to expand your professional horizons. If you have any queries or require assistance that Xjenza Malta may be able to help with or forward, please feel free to get in touch via francesca.grillo@gov.mt.

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