The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Japan is inviting applications for its Visiting Scholars Program (TSVP) 2026. This fully funded fellowship offers distinguished researchers the opportunity to spend 3–12 months at OIST, engaging in independent research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and academic exchange.
Application Deadline: September 15, 2025
Program Duration: Between April 2026 and March 2027
Launched in 2021, this program aims to bring world-class scholars to Okinawa and foster collaborative research across multiple scientific disciplines.
Fellowship Details
Degree Level
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Postdoctoral researchers
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Junior group leaders
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Faculty members
Eligible Subjects
Program Benefits
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Duration: 3–12 months in Okinawa, Japan
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Funding: Full financial support, including travel, housing, and living allowance (per diem)
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Research Freedom: No teaching duties; focus entirely on research and collaboration
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Networking: Engage with leading international researchers across disciplines
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Diversity Support: Applications from women and underrepresented groups strongly encouraged
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Family Assistance: On-site childcare, health facilities, and relocation support
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2026, applicants must:
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Hold a Ph.D. in a relevant field
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Be an independent researcher (senior postdoctoral fellow, junior group leader, or faculty-level academic)
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Submit a strong research proposal aligned with OIST’s mission
Application Process
Applicants are required to prepare and submit the following:
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Curriculum Vitae (CV) with a complete publication list
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Research Proposal (1–2 pages): Summary of past work and planned project at OIST, including potential collaboration units
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General-Audience Lecture Abstract: Title and short abstract for a talk aimed at a wider audience
Deadline: September 15, 2025 (11:59 PM Eastern Time)
Application Method: Submit applications via Interfolio Faculty Search
Why Apply for OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2026?
The OIST Visiting Scholars Program provides a unique platform for researchers to:
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Advance their academic careers in a world-class research environment
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Collaborate with international experts in various disciplines
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Gain exposure to Japanese research culture and Okinawa’s rich heritage
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Access fully funded research support with family-friendly facilities
Final Thoughts
The Japan OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for researchers worldwide to pursue fully funded research in a globally recognized academic setting. With strong financial support, no teaching obligations, and a commitment to diversity, OIST offers an unparalleled environment for academic growth and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Apply before September 15, 2025, to secure your place in this competitive fellowship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the duration of the OIST Visiting Scholars Program?
The program allows researchers to stay for 3 to 12 months in Okinawa, Japan.
2. Who can apply for the OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2026?
Eligible applicants include postdoctoral researchers, junior group leaders, and faculty members with a Ph.D. in a relevant field.
3. What expenses are covered under this fellowship?
The fellowship is fully funded, covering travel, housing, and a living allowance (per diem).
4. Do I need to teach during the program?
No, scholars are not required to teach. The program is focused exclusively on research and collaboration.
5. Can international applicants apply?
Yes, the program is open to all nationalities worldwide.
6. Is there family support available at OIST?
Yes, OIST provides on-site childcare, healthcare facilities, and relocation assistance for scholars with families.
7. What type of research is encouraged?
Interdisciplinary research across mathematics, physics, chemistry, engineering, computational sciences, and life sciences is strongly encouraged.
8. How do I apply for the program?
Applications must be submitted online via Interfolio Faculty Search before the deadline.
9. What documents are required for the application?
Applicants need to submit a CV with publications, a research proposal (1–2 pages), and a lecture abstract.
10. When is the application deadline?
The deadline for the OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2026 is September 15, 2025.
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