OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2027 in Japan (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the OIST Visiting Scholars Program FY2027 at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology in Japan. This prestigious program invites experienced researchers to conduct independent research at OIST for 3 to 12 months. It is open to all scientific fields with a strong focus on interdisciplinary work. The program is partially funded and covers major costs including travel, housing, and daily living expenses.

There is no application fee. Researchers at the level of senior postdoc, junior group leader, or faculty member can apply. The application deadline is September 15, 2026 for visits starting between April 2027 and March 2028. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here.

Key Details:

• Degree Level: Visiting Scholars Program
• Host Country: Japan
• Visit Period: April 2027 to March 2028
• Application Fee: None
• Open To: All nationalities
• Application Deadline: September 15, 2026

What This Scholarship Offers:

• Round trip airfare to and from Okinawa, Japan
• Free on campus housing for the entire duration of the visit
• Daily allowance to cover living expenses
• Dedicated office space
• Full access to OIST computing resources, library, and research facilities
• Logistical and administrative support from the TSVP staff

Also Check: British Academy Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026-2027

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply, candidates must meet these requirements:

• Hold a PhD in a relevant field
• Be an independent researcher with academic standing equal to senior postdoc, junior group leader, or faculty member
• Show a clear research plan that can benefit from time at OIST
• Be ready to give at least one general audience lecture during the visit

Current students are not eligible. Previous visitors may reapply.

Also Check: FIAS Fellowship Programme 2027/2028 in France

Eligible Fields:

The program is open to all disciplines.

How to Apply:

All applications must be submitted through the Interfolio portal. Email submissions are not accepted.

Prepare the following documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae including list of publications
2. Research proposal of 1 to 2 pages describing past research and proposed work at OIST
3. Title and abstract for a general audience talk
4. Any additional proposals for outreach activities, seminars, short courses, or career talks

Applications received by the deadline of September 15, 2026 will receive full consideration. All visits depend on funding availability and successful background checks.

Evaluation Criteria:

The selection committee looks at these main points:

• Scientific quality and expected impact of the research
• Potential benefit to OIST and its research units
• Level of interdisciplinarity
• Contribution to diversity and different career stages
• Planned outreach and teaching activities

Also Check: Singapore-Southeast Asia Fellowship (S-SEAF)