The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) invites applications for its Visiting Scholars Program 2026, offering fully funded research opportunities lasting between 3 to 12 months. This program is designed for independent researchers who wish to conduct research in various scientific disciplines while enjoying comprehensive logistical and administrative support.

  • 🌏 Host & Location: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Okinawa, Japan.
  • ⏳ Program Duration: 3–12 months.
  • 💰 Funding & Benefits: No application fee, travel expenses covered, on-campus accommodation, office space, per diem support, access to research facilities, logistical and administrative support.
  • 🎓 Research Opportunities: Open to all disciplines; participation in seminars, lectures, outreach activities, short courses, or career talks possible. No mandatory teaching.
  • 🧑‍🔬 Eligibility: Ph.D. in relevant field, independent researcher, academic position equivalent to senior postdoc/junior group leader/faculty, able to apply as “Experimental Visiting Scholar.” Must deliver a general-audience lecture.
  • 📝 Application Process: Apply via Interfolio, create profile, complete online form, upload CV, passport, transcripts, research proposal, talk abstract, optional outreach proposals, then submit.
  • 📅 Deadline: 15 September 2025.

Designation

Visiting Scholar

Research Area

Applications are welcome in multiple fields, including but not limited to:

  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Computational Sciences
  • Chemistry
  • Engineering
  • Life Sciences

Location

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Okinawa, Japan

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Candidates must possess a PhD in a relevant field.
  • Applicants should be independent researchers holding an academic position equivalent to a senior postdoctorate, junior group leader, or faculty member at a research institution.
  • All applicants must submit the required documents, which include a research proposal.

Job Description

Selected scholars will have the opportunity to:

  • Conduct independent research.
  • Deliver a general-audience lecture on their research area.
  • Participate in research seminars and lectures for graduate students.
  • Propose additional outreach activities, short courses, or career talks (optional).

How to Apply

  1. Create an Account: Applications are accepted via Interfolio. Create a new account or use your existing Google email to sign in.
  2. Profile Setup: Complete your profile with the necessary information.
  3. Application Form: Fill out the online application form including personal and contact details, educational background, and qualifications.
  4. Document Submission: Upload required documents, including your CV, valid passport, transcripts/degree certificates, research proposal, and a title/abstract for a general-audience talk. (Optional outreach proposals are encouraged.)
  5. Review and Submit: Review your application information and submit your form.

Last Date to Apply

September 15, 2025

For more detailed information and to apply, please refer to the official link provided by OIST.