YBB – Young researchers looking for an opportunity to conduct research in Japan can now apply for the UNESCO Japan Young Researchers Fellowships 2027. Supported by the Government of Japan through the UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowship Programme, this fully funded fellowship allows researchers to carry out postgraduate research at leading universities and research institutions across Japan.
Quick Overview
Host Country: Japan
Programme: UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowship
Duration: 3–9 months
Funding: Fully Funded (up to US$10,000)
Number of Awards: 10 fellowships
Fellowship Period: February–December 2027
Application Deadline: September 30, 2026
Research Areas
Applicants must submit a research proposal in one of the following fields:
- Artificial Intelligence and Education
- Heritage Conservation and Management
- AI for Sustainable Cities and Resilience
- AI for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Climate Action
- Ethical, Inclusive, and Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence
Also read: Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship 2027–2028 for International Scholars and Researchers
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants may receive funding of up to US$10,000, which can be used to cover:
- Accommodation
- International airfare
- Medical insurance
- Living expenses
- Local transportation
- Research-related costs
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible UNESCO Member State or Associate Member
- Be 40 years old or younger at the time of application
- Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field
- Have an excellent academic record
- Demonstrate strong research potential
- Obtain an acceptance letter from a supervisor at a Japanese university or research institution
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare:
- Completed application form
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Recommendation letter
- Acceptance letter from the Japanese host institution
- UNESCO language certificate (if required)
- Additional supporting documents requested by UNESCO
Also read: Fully Funded Asia in the World Fellowship Programme 2027 in the Netherlands
How to Apply
Applicants must first contact the National Commission for UNESCO in their home country and submit the required documents before the deadline. Candidates nominated by their National Commission will then complete the online submission through UNESCO’s application system.
For detailed information: https://www.unesco.org/en/fellowships/keizo-obuchi
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting nominations to UNESCO is September 30, 2026
Conclusion
If you are planning to build your research experience in Japan while contributing to projects related to artificial intelligence, sustainability, or cultural heritage, the UNESCO Japan Young Researchers Fellowships 2027 offers valuable international research experience with comprehensive financial support.
