ACTIVE

2026 JIIA Short-Term Program for Young Fellows

The Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA)
🇯🇵Japan
Duration:25 Jun 2026 - 25 Sept 2026
Application Deadline:09 Feb 2026

1. Purpose

The Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA) invites young researchers from Asian countries to take part in a short-term research program in Japan. The program is designed to enable researchers to deepen their understanding of Japan’s territorial, sovereignty, and historical issues through lectures, field trips, and exchanges with Japanese experts. It aims to build enduring research networks.

2. Duration

Three months, commencing from the End of June 2026.

3. Eligibility Criteria

  • Fields: Scholars/researchers in territory, sovereignty, international law, or the history of Japan, East Asia, or their region.
  • Education: A Master’s degree is required.
  • Age: Applicants under 35 years of age are preferred.
  • Language: Must be able to communicate easily and author reports in English.
  • Residency: Must be able to stay in Japan for the full duration of the program.

4. Research Topics

Fellows must conduct research on subjects pertaining to territory, sovereignty, international law, or the history of Japan, East Asia, or their region.

5. Program Activities

Fellows will attend lectures by experts, meet Japanese government officials, engage with researchers at think tanks/universities, and participate in field trips (e.g., Nemuro, Kanazawa, Matsue, Naha, Ishigaki). Fellows may also observe JIIA seminars/conferences.

6. Financial Support

Basic Support:

  • Airfare: Round-trip economy class to/from Japan.
  • Transport: Airport transfers (Narita/Haneda) covered.
  • Housing: JIIA provides a furnished apartment near the office and covers accommodation fees.
  • Stipend: JPY 250,000 per month (living expenses, subject to 20.42% tax).
  • Settling-in/Departure Allowance: Total JPY 200,000 (paid as two installments of 100k, subject to tax).
  • Insurance: Overseas traveler’s insurance provided (pre-existing conditions/dental not covered).
  • Field Trips: Transport and accommodation covered by JIIA.

Research Support: Up to JPY 300,000 total (JPY 100k/30 days) available for books/travel upon approval (subject to tax).

7. Obligations

Fellows must attend the office on weekdays, submit monthly worklogs, make a presentation on their draft paper, and submit a Final Research Paper within 3 months of completion (to be posted on the JIIA website).

8. Basic Terms & Conditions

  • Exclusivity: Fellows cannot hold concurrent grants or engage in any employment (paid or unpaid) in Japan.
  • Visa: JIIA assists with the Certificate of Eligibility (COE); Fellows must secure the visa.
  • Health Check: A Certificate of Health is required (cost borne by the candidate).
  • Title: Fellows hold the title of "Visiting Research Fellow".

9. Application Process

Deadline: February 9, 2026

10. Downloads & Additional Resources