Applications are now open for the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme 2026, also known as the UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships Programme. Supported by the Government of Japan, the initiative provides outstanding young researchers with the opportunity to undertake postgraduate research at leading universities and research institutions across Japan.

The programme aims to strengthen research capacity, promote international academic collaboration, and support innovative research that contributes to sustainable development and UNESCO’s global priorities. For the 2026 cycle, 10 fellowships will be awarded to qualified researchers from eligible countries in Africa, Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Ukraine, and Türkiye.

About the Fellowship

Established in 2001 through the Japanese Funds-in-Trust for the Capacity-Building of Human Resources, the fellowship has supported hundreds of researchers worldwide in advancing research across areas that align with UNESCO’s mission.

Selected fellows will conduct research in Japan for a period ranging from three to nine months, beginning from February 2027, with all projects expected to conclude by December 2027.

Research Areas

Applicants are invited to submit research proposals under one of the following priority themes:

• Heritage Conservation and Management
• AI for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Climate Action
• Ethical, Inclusive and Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development
• AI Governance, Ethics and Responsible Innovation
• AI for Sustainable Cities, Infrastructure and Societal Resilience
• Artificial Intelligence and Education

Interdisciplinary research that combines technology, sustainability, ethics, governance, heritage, and social development is strongly encouraged.

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by a committee of experts from UNESCO and the Government of Japan.

Selection will be based on:

• Academic excellence
• Quality and originality of the research proposal
• Relevance to UNESCO priority areas
• Research potential
• Expected impact of the proposed study

Gender balance and geographic diversity will also be considered during the final selection process.

Summary

• Host: UNESCO & Government of Japan
• Programme: UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers' Fellowships Programme (Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships)
• Location: Japan
• Opportunity Type: Fully Funded Research Fellowship
• Funding: Up to US$10,000
• Duration: 3–9 months
• Eligible Applicants: Young researchers from eligible countries
• Research Start: From February 2027
• Application Deadline: 30 September 2026

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their research proposals and obtaining host institution acceptance well in advance of the closing date which is 30 September 2026 (Midnight, Paris Time).

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply.