Applications are now open for the Visiting Scholars Program at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) for the fiscal year 2027. This prestigious program invites accomplished researchers and scholars from around the world to spend a productive research period at OIST. The program is open to researchers at all academic levels, from early-career scholars to senior professionals, and is designed to facilitate international research collaboration and knowledge exchange.
While OIST provides financial and logistical support to approved visitors, this support is subject to available funding and may be partial. The program welcomes applicants from all nationalities, and there is no application fee. All visits are subject to availability of funding, with preference given to applications received by September 15th, 2026. Intended stays should fall between April 2027 and March 2028. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here
Key Details:
- Host Institution: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), Japan
- Program Type: Visiting Scholars Program
- Who can Apply : Open to all levels (doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and senior researchers)
- Host Country: Japan
- Application Deadline: September 15th, 2026
- Open to All Nationalities: Yes
- Application Fee: No
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- MBZUAI Faculty and Postdoctoral Research Positions 2026 in Abu Dhabi
What This Scholarship Offers:
Financial Support:
- Round-trip economy-class airfare (subject to a cap)
- Accommodation support (on-campus housing, subject to availability)
- Research and operational support
Institutional Benefits:
- Dedicated office space at OIST
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and basic institutional resources
- Comprehensive logistical and administrative support to ensure smooth integration
Eligibility Criteria:
- Possess a strong academic or research background with demonstrated expertise in their field
- Hold or be affiliated with a research or academic position at the time of application
- Identify and secure a commitment from a proposed OIST faculty host
- Be prepared to contribute meaningfully to the OIST research community
- Demonstrate clear research goals and anticipated outcomes for the visit
- Plan a visit starting between April 2027 and March 2028
- Provide documentation of current employment status (may be requested at a later stage)
Application Documents Required:
- Curriculum Vitae with publication list
- Research Proposal for your OIST work
- Proposed OIST faculty host and research connection details
- Support Letter from your OIST faculty host (via Interfolio)
- OIST Engagement Plan (course, seminar, mentoring, or community contribution)
- Proposed Visit Dates with duration justification
- Estimated Budget (travel, accommodation, and other support needed)
- Employment Confirmation (may be requested later)
How to Apply
Step 1: Identify a Faculty Host
- Before beginning your application, identify a potential OIST faculty member in your field of research and contact them to confirm their willingness to host your visit.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Materials
- Gather all required documents (see “Application Documents” section)
Step 3: Submit via Interfolio
- Submit your complete application through the Interfolio platform by the deadline
Step 4: Confirmation
- You will receive a confirmation of receipt. Applications received by September 15th, 2026 are guaranteed full consideration
