Guidance

UK-Japan science and innovation funding opportunities

Updated 11 December 2025

UK-Japan joint funding schemes

1. UK-Japan civil nuclear research programme

Organisations

Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).

Field

Joint research on advanced nuclear science including decommissioning relevant to Fukushima and Sellafield.

Overview

The UK-Japan civil nuclear research programme is a bilateral funding opportunity to address research challenges in civil nuclear energy relevant to Fukushima and Sellafield. Applicants must be researchers based in the UK or Japan. The programme covers research expenses for up to 3 years. More details on the UKRI website.

2. International Exchange Programme – Cost Share Programme

Organisation

The Royal Society and Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).

Field

Natural Sciences.

Overview

International Exchange Programme – Cost Share Programme is for scientists based in the UK or Japan who want to stimulate collaborations with leading scientists overseas through either a one-off visit or bilateral travel. JSPS will cover the costs of the Japan team, and the Royal Society will cover the costs of the UK team. Applicants for this scheme (both UK and the Japanese co-applicant) must hold a PhD or have equivalent research experience, and hold a fixed or permanent contract at an eligible organisation for the duration of the project. More details on the Royal Society website.

3. MUSUBI 

Organisation 

British Embassy Tokyo. 

Overview 

MUSUBI – meaning ‘connection’ in Japanese – is a UK-Japan initiative fostering people-to-people ties and shared leadership through scholarships, cultural exchange, and business empowerment supported by public-private partnerships. Programmes include the MUSUBI Robert Walters Career Development Programme, UCL Scholarship, and SSE Pacifico Offshore Wind Scholarship. More details on MUSUBI website.

Funding schemes administered in Japan

1. AMED Interstellar Initiative

Organisation

Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED).

Field

Health and medical sciences.

Overview

The Interstellar Initiative programme connects Early Career Scientists (ECIs) with peers. The programme enables ECIs to form a team and receive expert guidance from leading senior scientists on the preparation of a compelling research proposal, as well as network with exceptional researchers from around the world and build international research collaborations. More details on the AMED website.

2. Hokkaido University MANABIYA Academic

Organisation

Hokkaido University.

Field

Computational, information and experimental science.

Overview

MANABIYA is a system to develop the new interdisciplinary academic field of “Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery (CReDD)” worldwide. Under the MANABIYA Academic scheme, early-career researchers, undergraduate and graduate students from overseas research institutes and universities are invited to stay at the Institute for Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery (ICReDD) for 2 weeks to 3 months. The programme covers accommodation and travel expenses. More details on the Hokkaido University website.

3. Kyoto University Hakubi Project (global type)

Organisation

Kyoto University.

Field

All fields of the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences – include all academic research from basic to applied. 

Overview 

The Hakubi Project fosters future world-class researchers at Kyoto University. Researchers with a doctoral degree or equivalent academic research abilities are eligible. Applicants of all nationalities are welcome. Successful applicants will be hired as program-specific faculty members on an annual salary basis as stipulated in the Kyoto University Rules of Employment for Fixed-Term Program-Specific Faculty Members and will be paid in accordance with the university’s payment standards. More details on the Kyoto University website.

4. JSPS Overseas Research Fellowships

Organisation

Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).

Field

All fields of humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.

Overview

Overseas Research Fellowships give excellent young researchers in Japan an opportunity to carry out long-term research at an overseas university or research institution. Postdoctoral researchers employed in Japanese universities or research institutions who have received a doctoral degree within 5 year or have had less than 5 years of experience in a permanent full-time research position at the time of starting fellowship are eligible. Roundtrip international airfare, maintenance allowance (living and research costs) and child allowance (only for Restart Research Abroad Programme) are provided. More details on the JSPS website.

5. JSPS Core to Core programme

Organisation

Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).

Field

Research topics considered to be cutting-edge and internationally important in Japan (all fields of humanities, social sciences and natural sciences).

Overview

The Core to Core Programme is designed to create world-class research hubs in Japan with long-term partnerships with other core research institutions around the world. The programme supports core institutions in Japan and their counterparts to deliver joint research projects and seminars under the programme. More details on the JSPS website.

6. JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan – Summer Programme

Organisation

Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). 

Field 

All fields of the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. 

Overview 

JSPS’s Summer Programme provides opportunities for pre- and post-doctoral researchers from North America and Europe including the UK to receive an orientation on Japanese culture and research systems as well as to pursue research under the guidance of host researchers at a Japanese university or research institute for 2 months during the summer. The programme offers roundtrip international airfare, maintenance allowance, overseas travel insurance and research support allowance. More details on the JSPS website.

7. JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan – Short-term Programme

Organisation

Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).

Field

All fields of the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.

Overview

JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship for Research in Japan Short-term Programme provides PhD students or PhD researchers in North America and Europe including the UK with opportunities to conduct collaborative research under the guidance of their hosts in universities and other Japanese institutions for 1-12 months. The programme offers roundtrip international airfare, maintenance allowance, overseas travel insurance, and settling-in allowance. The host researcher can also apply for a research support allowance through the institution to cover cooperative research-related expenses. More details on the JSPS website.

8. JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship for Research in Japan – Standard Programme

Organisation/s

Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).

Field

All fields of the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. 

Overview 

JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship Standard Programme provides researchers who have obtained their PhD within 6 years with opportunities to conduct collaborative research under the guidance of their hosts in universities and other research institutions in Japan for 12-24 months. The programme offers roundtrip international airfare, maintenance allowance, settling-in allowance and overseas travel insurance. The host researcher can also apply for “Grant-in-Aid for JSPS Research Fellow” via their institution to cover cooperative research-related expenses. More details on the JSPS website.

9. JSPS Invitational Fellowships for Research in Japan – Long-term Programme 

Organisation 

Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). 

Field 

All fields of the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.

Overview

The JSPS Invitational Fellowship for Research in Japan – Long-term Programme provides overseas researchers (associate professor level or above) who have an excellent record of research achievements with an opportunity to conduct collaborative research with researchers in Japan for 2-10 months. The programme offers roundtrip international airfare, maintenance allowance and overseas travel insurance. The host researcher can also apply for a research support allowance through their institution to cover cooperative research-related expenses. More details on the JSPS website.

10. JSPS Invitational Fellowships for Research in Japan – Short-term Programme 

Organisation 

Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). 

Field 

All fields of the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.

Overview

JSPS Invitational Fellowship for Research in Japan – Short-term Programme provides overseas researchers (associate professor level or above) who have an excellent record of research achievements with an opportunity to conduct collaborative research, discussions, and opinion exchanges with researchers in Japan for 14-60 days. The programme offers roundtrip international airfare, maintenance allowance and overseas travel insurance. The host researcher can also apply for a research support allowance through their institution to cover cooperative research-related expenses. More details on the JSPS website.

11. Sakura Science Exchange Programme – Sakura Invitation Programme

Organisation

Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST).

Field

Science and technology (natural sciences, humanities and social sciences).

Overview

Sakura Science Exchange Programme invites young overseas talent for short-term visits (for 7-21 days), giving them an opportunity to experience Japan’s cutting-edge science, technology and culture. Students, researchers and others engaged in science and technology aged 40 and under are eligible. JST will provide the required expenses (travel, sojourn and others) to the Japanese host organisation. More details on the JST website.

12. Japanese Government (MEXT) Postgraduate Scholarship

Organisation

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).

Field

Any fields.

Overview

MEXT Postgraduate Scholarships are open to those with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, who are under the age of 35 who wish to continue their studies in Japan. Any foreign national from a country with diplomatic relations with the government of Japan is eligible. All application procedures are conducted through Japanese embassies or consulates in the UK, or institutions of higher education in Japan. More details on the Embassy of Japan in the UK website.

13. NEC C&C Foundation Grants for Researchers 

Organisation 

NEC C&C Foundation. 

Field 

C&C technology, including information processing, communications, electronic devices, ICT fields, data science, AI, sensing, recognition, robotics, automatic control, information security, and virtual reality.

Overview

The Grants for Researchers support doctoral students of any nationality based in Japan who are conducting research into C&C technology. Applicants must be a doctoral student at graduate school or an equivalent institution in Japan under the age of 40 at the start of the grant period. More details on the NEC C&C Foundation website.

14. STeP JAPAN (Science and Technology Fellowship Programme for JAPAN) 

Organisation 

New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation (NEDO). 

Field 

Basic mining and manufacturing technologies. 

Overview 

STeP JAPAN offers overseas researchers the opportunity to carry out basic research on mining technology, invited by NEDO and hosted by a private sector company in Japan. Direct expenses (airfares, maintenance allowance, and domestic business trip allowance) are provided by the investment profit of Japan Trust, a charitable trust founded by the donations of individual and corporate benefactors. More details on the NEDO website (only in Japanese).

15. NICT International Exchange Programme

Organisation

National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT).

Field

Information and Communication Technology; advanced telecommunications and broadcasting technology.

Overview

NICT’s International Exchange Programme supports Japanese research organisations (university, business and public interest corporation etc) to invite a foreign researcher to conduct R&D relating to advanced telecommunications and broadcasting. This fund covers the costs of inviting the foreign researchers to Japan including airfare and maintenance allowance. More details on the NICT website.

16. Japan Trust International Research Cooperation Programme

Organisation

National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT).

Field

Information and Communication Technology; advanced telecommunications and broadcasting technology.

Overview

Japan Trust International Research Cooperation Programme offers overseas researchers the opportunity to conduct fundamental R&D relating to telecommunications and broadcasting, invited by NICT and hosted by a private company in Japan. Direct expenses (airfares, maintenance allowance, and domestic business trip allowance) are provided by the investment profit of Japan Trust, a charitable trust founded by the donations of individual and corporate benefactors. More details on the NICT website.

17. OIST Visiting Programme – Thematic Programme 

Organisation 

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST). 

Field 

All fields including, but not limited to, mathematics, physics, computational sciences, chemistry, engineering, and life sciences. 

Overview 

The Thematic Programme (TP) brings a focused group to OIST for 1–2 months to advance a specific research theme. TPs are coordinated by 2 or more researchers, who are invited to stay at OIST for the full TP. OIST provides financial and administrative support to invite participants, 4-8 of whom should be present at any one time. TPs may host a linked symposium at OIST where it fits the goals and timeframe of the programme. More details on the OIST website.

18. OIST Visiting Programme – Visiting Scholars 

Organisation 

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST). 

Field 

All fields including, but not limited to, mathematics, physics, computational sciences, chemistry, engineering, and life sciences. 

Overview 

This track supports independent researchers with a PhD (typically senior postdoc+) who conduct independent research at OIST for 3–12 months. OIST supports travel, accommodation and living expenses at the level of per diem, as well as access to facilities. No teaching duties come with the position, but Visiting Scholars are expected to give a lecture on their field of research to a general audience within their first month. More details on the OIST website. 

19. OIST Visiting Programme – Experimental Visiting Scholars 

Organisation 

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST). 

Field 

Only researchers requiring access to a lab should apply. Open to all fields including, but not limited to, mathematics, physics, computational sciences, chemistry, engineering, and life sciences. 

Overview 

This track supports independent researchers with a PhD (typically senior postdoc+) who conduct independent research at OIST for 3–12 months. OIST supports travel, accommodation and living expenses at the level of per diem, as well as access to facilities. No teaching duties come with the position, but Visiting Scholars are expected to give a lecture on their field of research to a general audience within their first month. More details on the OIST website. 

20. OIST Visiting Programme – Domestic Visitors 

Organisation 

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST). 

Field 

All fields connected to OIST. 

Overview 

The Domestic Visitors programme is designed for researchers working in Japan, enabling flexible visits of approximately 2 weeks to 6 months, which can be split into shorter trips. OIST provides free accommodation and office space; visitors usually arrange their own travel. No teaching duties come with the position, but Domestic Visitors are expected to give a seminar about their research within the first month of their visit. More details on the OIST website.

21. Tohoku University RIEC Nation-wide Cooperative Research Projects (International Cooperative Research)

Organisation

Tohoku University Research Institute of Electrical Communication (RIEC).

Field

Information and Communication Technology.

Overview

RIEC Nation-wide Cooperative Research Projects call for cooperative research projects relevant to technologies and systems in the information and communication sector between researchers in Japan and overseas. The programme covers expenses required to conduct research, participate in or hold workshops. More details on the RIEC website.

22. RIKEN International Programme Associate (IPA)

Organisation

RIKEN.

Field

Natural Sciences.

Overview

The International Programme Associate (IPA) aims to identify and foster talented young scientists capable of contributing to the advancement of science for the global community for up to 3 years. IPA is a non-Japanese doctoral candidate attending a Japanese or overseas graduate school, as part of RIKEN’s Joint Graduate School programme of partnered institutions. IPAs conduct research at RIKEN under the supervision of RIKEN scientists whilst working towards a PhD. More details on the RIKEN website.

23. Suntory Foundation Grant for Collaborative Research in Humanities and Social Sciences 

Organisation 

Suntory Foundation. 

Field 

Humanities and Social Sciences. 

Overview 

The Grant for Collaborative Research in Humanities and Social Sciences aims to promote ground-breaking group-based research projects that take a fresh look at conventional humanities and social sciences and contribute to the development of local culture. Applications are accepted from people of all nationalities, institutions, and places of residence, but applications must be submitted in Japanese. More details on the Suntory Foundation website. 

24. Suntory Foundation Grant for Ground-breaking Young Researchers 

Organisation

Suntory Foundation.

Field

Humanities and Social Sciences.

Overview

The grant aims to support young researchers with a Master’s degree under 35 years old who aspire to redefine the boundaries of scholarship in the fields of humanities and social sciences. Applications are accepted from people of all nationalities, institutions, and places of residence, but application information and forms are provided only in Japanese and applications must be submitted in Japanese. More details on the Suntory Foundation website.

25. TEPCO Memorial Foundation Support for International Technological Interaction

Organisation

Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (TEPCO) Memorial Foundation.

Field

Electronics and Energy (including relevant environmental studies).

Overview

TEPCO Memorial Foundation’s Support for International Technological Interaction covers expenses for travel, conference registration and accommodation for international conferences and meetings with an aim to improve technology in electricity-related fields. Any researcher or graduate school student under the age of 40 affiliated with a Japanese university, graduate school or equivalent research institution is eligible to apply. More details on the TEPCO Memorial Foundation website.

26. The Kajima Foundation – International Joint Research Grants 

Organisation

The Kajima Foundation.

Field

Improvement of the urban and residential environment, Effective use of land and resources, Promotion of disaster prevention and risk management, or Preservation of the cultural and natural environment.

Overview

The Kajima Foundation’s International Joint Research Grants support research groups conducting international collaborative research with overseas partners. Research groups in universities / research institutes in Japan who are working together with overseas research partners are eligible and successful teams receive up to ¥ 10 million. More details on the Kajima Foundation website.

27. The Kajima Foundation Researcher Exchange Support – Short-term / Long-term Research Programme for Researchers in Japanese Universities

Organisation

The Kajima Foundation.

Field

Natural Sciences, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Cross-disciplinary research contributing to social good.

Overview

The Research Programme supports researchers in designated Japanese universities to conduct their research overseas. The short-term programme targets senior researchers (professor equivalent) and mid-career researchers (associate / assistant professor and lecturer equivalent), while the long-term programme targets only mid-career researchers. Airfare and maintenance allowance are provided. More details on the Kajima Foundation website. 

28. The Kajima Foundation Researcher Exchange Support – Short-term / Long-term Research Programme for International Researchers

Organisation

The Kajima Foundation.

Field

Natural Sciences, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Cross-disciplinary research contributing to social good.

Overview

The Short-term / Long-term Research Programme supports international researchers to conduct their research in Japan. The short-term programme targets international senior researchers (professor equivalent), while the long-term programme targets international mid-career and young researchers (associate, assistant professor and lecturer equivalent). Researchers in designated Japanese universities can apply as hosts. Airfare and maintenance allowance are provided. More details on the Kajima Foundation website. 

29. The Matsumae International Foundation Research Fellowship Programme

Organisation

The Matsumae International Foundation.

Field

Priority given to natural sciences, engineering and medicine etc.  

Overview 

The Research Fellowship Programme supports outstanding, young researchers to carry out research in Japan. Foreign national applicants at the age of 45 or younger who hold a PhD at the time of application are eligible to apply. Applicants must obtain an invitation letter from a host institution in Japan prior to application. Airfare, monthly living and research allowance, relocation expense, and travel insurance are provided. The foundation also organises a domestic study trip. More details on the Matsumae International Foundation website.

30. The Murata Science Foundation Grant for Overseas Research Activities

Organisation

The Murata Science Foundation.

Field

Natural sciences with particular focus on electronics; Humanities and social sciences with a focus on legal, economic, social, cultural and other issues associated with internationalisation.

Overview 

The Grant for Overseas Research Activities covers research expenses for overseas research activities or for participation in international conferences. Researchers in Japan regardless of nationality who (are likely to) receive approval from an overseas host to conduct research or to participate in international conferences are eligible to apply. More details on the Murata Science Foundation website (only in Japanese). 

31. Toshiba Fellowship Programme (TFP)

Organisation

Toshiba.

Field

Engineering, physical sciences (different research topics every year). 

Overview 

TFP offers a unique opportunity for qualified PhD level scientists, to journey alongside Toshiba into innovation discovering a new world of research and development, as well as exploring and living a new cultural experience in Japan initially for one year. The Fellow receives a generous package, including a fixed salary and relocation assistance to and from Japan, together with support and advice prior to and during their stay. More details on the Toshiba website.

Funding schemes administered in the UK

1. AHRC International Fellowships

Organisation

Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

Field

Arts and Humanities.

Overview

A Fellowship programme for AHRC funded doctoral students, early career researchers and doctoral level research assistants. Winners will receive £1,000 for travel and visa costs and £1,925 for each month of the fellowship. Each placement will last between 2 and 6 months at one of the following institutions:

(a) Harry Ransom Center, US
(b) The Huntington Library, US
(c) The Library of Congress, US
(d) Smithsonian Institution, US
(e) Yale Centre for British Art, US
(f) National Institutes for the Humanities (NIHU), Japan
(g) Shanghai Theatre Academy, China

More details on the UKRI website.

2. BBSRC International Travel Award Scheme

Organisation

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

Field

Biotechnology, Bioscience.

Overview 

BBSRC’s International Travel Award Scheme is for BBSRC-supported researchers making visits to initiate or prepare proposals with international partners, attending consortia-building events or visiting overseas facilities for up to one month. Funding of up to £3,000 is limited to travel and subsistence costs. More details on the UKRI website.

3. British Academy / Leverhulme Small Research Grants

Organisation

British Academy. Funded as a public-private partnership, including the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), Leverhume Trust and Wellcome Trust.

Field

Humanities, Social sciences.

Overview

The British Academy / Leverhulme Small Research Grants aim to support postdoctoral scholars (or equivalent) to conduct primary research in humanities and social sciences. The Principal Applicant must be ordinarily a resident of the UK and co-applicants may be from anywhere in the world. Up to £10,000 is available for direct research expenses for up to 24 months. More details on the British Academy website.

4. British Academy Knowledge Frontiers: International Interdisciplinary Research Projects

Organisation 

British Academy. 

Field 

Humanities, Social sciences. 

Overview 

The Knowledge Frontiers programme provides opportunity to develop and lead interdisciplinary research projects led by UK-based researchers at any career stage and active in any discipline within social sciences and the humanities.  The involvement of overseas-based co-applicants is required. Awards of 24 months in duration and up to £300,000. More details on the British Academy website.

5. British Academy Visiting Fellowships

Organisation

British Academy.

Field

Humanities, Social sciences.

Overview

The British Academy’s Visiting Fellowships enable academics from any country overseas to be based at a UK higher education or other research institution of their choice for up to 6 months and develop collaborative projects with UK colleagues. The visiting fellow must be of postdoctoral level or above, or have equivalent research experience at the time of application, and can be active at any career stage and in any discipline within the humanities and the social sciences. More details on the British Academy website.

6. Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation – Daiwa Foundation Small Grants 

Organisation 

Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation.

Field

Academic, professional, arts, cultural, scientific and educational fields.

Overview

The Daiwa Foundation’s Small Grants aim to promote and support interaction between the UK and Japan. Grants of £2,000-£9,000 are available to individuals, societies, associations or other bodies in the UK or Japan for various activities such as educational exchanges and research travel. Applicants must be resident in either the UK or Japan and demonstrate a long-term commitment to UK-Japan relations. More details on the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation website.

7. Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation – Daiwa Foundation Awards 

Organisation 

Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation.

Field

Academic, professional, arts, cultural, scientific and educational fields (Any project which involves a significant level of collaboration between British and Japanese partners can be considered).

Overview

The Daiwa Foundation’s Awards (£9,000-£18,000) support institutional relationships between British and Japanese partners.  Applicants must be resident in either the UK or Japan and demonstrate a long-term commitment to UK-Japan relations. More details on the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation website.

8. EPSRC Overseas Travel Grant

Organisation

Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Field

Any area within the remit of EPSRC (including the following: Digital economy, Energy, Engineering, Manufacturing the future, Mathematical sciences, Physical sciences, Quantum technologies, or Research infrastructure etc.)

Overview

EPSRC’s overseas travel grants provide funding for visits overseas to learn new techniques, or form and develop collaborations. Costs supported include travel, subsistence, salary of project lead and indirect costs. Applicants must be based at an eligible UK research organisation. More details on the UKRI website.

9. The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation Grants

Organisation

The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation.

Field

Arts and Culture, Humanities and Social Issues, Japanese Language, Medicine and Health, Science, Technology and Environment,  Sport, Youth and Education.

Overview

The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation’s Grant seeks to promote cooperation between the UK and Japan in the above fields through financial support. Both Japanese and UK organisations and groups are eligible. Projects originating in the UK should be submitted through the London office and those originating in Japan through the Tokyo office. Applications for UK-Japan collaborations or exchanges should be submitted as a single project through Tokyo or London, not as separate applications. The London Office accepts applications 3 times a year and Tokyo twice a year. Standard travel grants between the UK and Japan are £2,000, and up to £2,500 for visits of more than 2 weeks. Applications for longer-term fieldwork of 6 months or more in Japan can be considered, with grants of up to £5,000. For PhD students from Japan wishing to travel to the UK for research, grants of up to ¥300,000 are available. More details on the Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation website.

10. Butterfield Awards

Organisation

The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation. 

Field 

Any field of medicine and health research.

Overview

Butterfield Awards aim to encourage and facilitate UK-Japan joint projects in medicine and health. The grants may be used for travel expenses or to contribute to other costs as appropriate except for laboratory consumables. Up to £10,000 for a maximum of 3 years is available.  The London Office accepts applications once a year. More details on the Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation website.

11. Leverhulme Trust Research Fellowships

Organisation

Leverhulme Trust.

Field

All subject areas except studies of disease, illness and disabilities in humans and animals, or research that is intended to inform clinical practice or the development of medical applications.

Overview

Research Fellowships are open to experienced researchers, particularly those who are or have been prevented by routine duties from completing a programme of original research. Priority will be given to applicants whose teaching and administrative duties have significantly impacted their ability to undertake research in the 3 years prior to their application. The maximum value of a Fellowship is £70,000. Fellowships are tenable for between 3 and 24 months. Projects with an international research focus are welcome. More details on the Leverhulme Trust website.

12. Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Programme

Organisation

National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

Field

Health research.

Overview 

The Health Technology Assessment Programme funds independent research about the effectiveness, costs and broader impact of healthcare treatments and tests for those who plan, provide or receive care in the NHS. NIHR funds studies via a number of routes including commissioned and researcher-led workstreams. More details on the NIHR website. 

13. RAEng Distinguished International Associates

Organisation

Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng).

Field

Engineering, in particular an area that contributes to at least one of the Academy’s strategic goals – sustainable society or inclusive economy.

Overview

The Distinguished International Associates programme supports international engineers in any sectors, who are at the cutting edge of engineering research or innovation, and have existing collaborations or connections to the UK which they would like to intensify. All lead applicants must be based outside of the UK. The programme is aimed at experienced researchers with approximately 10-25 years postdoctoral or equivalent experience and a significant international track record in their discipline. Successful awardees will receive funding of up to £10,000 for up to 12 months. More details on the RAEng website.

14. RAEng Frontiers Programme

Organisation

Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng).

Field

Engineering.

Overview

Frontiers connects and empowers enthusiastic researchers, innovators and practitioners from the UK and around the world to work together to solve complex global challenges through symposia and funding opportunities. Frontiers symposia participants are eligible to apply for 3 different types of funding to implement or sustain projects conceived through a symposia or to develop collaboration opportunities:

(i) Seed Funding for successful collaboration bids from each symposium
(ii) Follow on Funding for scaling up seed funded projects into fully formed collaborative research projects
(iii) Becoming a Frontiers Champion with a networking grant

More details on the RAEng website.

15. Newton International Fellowships

Organisations

The Royal Society and British Academy.

Field

The Royal Society’s remit of natural sciences, which includes but is not limited to biological research and biomedical sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics.

Overview

Newton International Fellowships are for scientists from outside of the UK who are at an early stage of their research career, and wish to conduct research in the UK. Funding is provided for 2 years to cover basic salary, research expenses, relocation and visa costs, estate costs and indirect costs. Applicants must have a PhD and no more than 7 years of active full-time postdoctoral experience at the time of application. Applicants must not hold UK citizenship. Applications for the humanities and social sciences should be made to the British Academy. More details on the Royal Society website.

16. Royal Society International Exchange Scheme – Global Rounds

Organisation

The Royal Society.

Field

The Royal Society’s remit of natural sciences, which includes but is not limited to biological research and biomedical sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics.

Overview

The International Exchange Scheme – Global rounds is for scientists based in the UK who want to stimulate new collaborations with leading scientists overseas through a one-off visit or reciprocal travel.  This is available for travel to/from all countries outside the UK. The funding available is scaled relative to the length of the visit. Applicants and overseas co-applicants must hold a PhD and a fixed or permanent contract at an eligible organisation for the duration of the project. More details on the Royal Society website.

17. Royal Society Wolfson Fellowship

Organisation

The Royal Society and the Wolfson Foundation.

Field

The Royal Society’s remit of natural sciences, which includes but is not limited to biological research and biomedical sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics.

Overview

The Wolfson Fellowship is a five year programme which focuses on recruitment, enabling UK institutions to enhance their offering with an up to £300,000 fellowship award to international research leaders wishing to relocate to the UK. To be eligible to apply applicants can be of any nationality, and must be currently based overseas as well as be nominated by the Vice Chancellor or the Institute Director. More details on the Royal Society website.

18. Royal Society Wolfson Visiting Fellowship

Organisations

The Royal Society and the Wolfson Foundation.

Field

The Royal Society’s remit of natural sciences, which includes but is not limited to biological research and biomedical sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics.

Overview

The Wolfson Visiting Fellowship provides an opportunity for outstanding international researchers to undertake a flexible 12 month period of sabbatical leave in a UK university or research institution. To be eligible to apply applicants must be currently based overseas and have received a firm offer from a UK university or research institution to take effect from the start of the appointment. Candidates can request up to £125,000 for bursary for visiting fellows and research expenses. More details on the Royal Society website.

19. Royal Society University Research Fellowship 

Organisation 

The Royal Society. 

Field 

The Royal Society’s remit of natural sciences, which includes but is not limited to biological research and biomedical sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics. 

Overview 

The University Research Fellowship aims to support the next generation of research leaders to undertake cutting-edge research and enable outstanding early career scientists with the potential to become leaders in their field to build an independent research career at a UK university or research institution. Applicants can apply for up to a maximum of £1.87 million over 8 years. Fellowships are for 8 years, with years 6 to 8 being subject to satisfactory progress demonstrated in a mid-fellowship review at the start of year 4. More details on the Royal Society website. 

20. Faraday Discovery Fellowship 

Organisation 

The Royal Society. 

Field 

The Royal Society’s remit of natural sciences, which includes but is not limited to biological research and biomedical sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics. 

Overview 

The Faraday Discovery Fellowship is aimed at outstanding mid-career Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) researchers and will provide grants of up to £8m over a ten-year period to support the development of world-leading research groups in the UK. More details on the Royal Society website. 

21. Faraday Discovery Fellowship Accelerated International Route 

Organisation 

The Royal Society. 

Field 

The Royal Society’s remit of natural sciences, which includes but is not limited to biological research and biomedical sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics.  

Overview 

The Faraday Discovery Fellowship Accelerated International Route provides a fast-track option for attracting mid-career researchers looking to relocate to the UK from overseas, providing up to £4m over a five-year period. More details on the Royal Society website. 

22. Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship 

Organisation 

The Royal Society. 

Field 

The Royal Society’s remit of natural sciences, which includes but is not limited to biological research and biomedical sciences, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and physics.  

Overview 

The Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship offers a recognised first step into an independent research career for outstanding early career scientists who require a flexible working pattern due to personal circumstances, such as caring responsibilities and/or health-related conditions. Fellowships are for 8 years, with years 6 to 8 being subject to satisfactory progress demonstrated in a mid-fellowship review at year 4. Applicants can apply for up to a maximum of £1.87 million over 8 years. More details on the Royal Society website.

23. STFC Ernest Rutherford Fellowship

Organisation

Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).

Field

The remit of the STFC core science programme, including: Astronomy, Solar and planetary science, Particle physics, Particle astrophysics, Cosmology, Nuclear physics, or Accelerator physics.

Overview

The Ernest Rutherford Fellowship will support researchers to run an independent research project for up to five years. Applicants must hold a PhD, be an early career researcher without a permanent academic position, and have clear leadership potential. Applications must be hosted and supported by an eligible UK research organisation. Fellowships are open to applicants of any nationality. More details on the UKRI website.

24. Wellcome Early Career Awards

Organisation

Wellcome Trust.

Field

Any discipline - including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), experimental medicine, humanities and social science, clinical/allied health sciences, and public health.

Overview

Wellcome Early-Career Awards provide funding for early-career researchers from any discipline who are ready to develop their research identity. Applicants must have sponsorship from an eligible host organisation in the UK, Republic of Ireland, or low- or middle income country (apart from India and mainland China). Those with at least 4 years’ equivalent research experience, or who have completed a PhD or an equivalent higher research degree are eligible. For up to 5 years, the funding covers the candidate’s salary and up to £400,000 for research expenses. More details on the Wellcome Trust website.

25. Wellcome Career Development Awards

Organisation

Wellcome Trust.

Field

Any discipline - including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), experimental medicine, humanities and social science, clinical/allied health sciences, and public health.

Overview

Wellcome Career Development Awards provide funding for mid-career researchers from any discipline who can demonstrate the potential to be international research leaders. Applicants must have sponsorship from an eligible host organisation in one of the following: UK, Republic of Ireland, or low- or middle income country (apart from India and mainland China). For up to 8 years, the funding provides a salary for the grantholder (if required) and research expenses. More details on the Wellcome Trust website.

26. Springboard Awards

Organisations

Wellcome Trust.

Field

Any discipline.

Overview

Wellcome Discovery Awards provide funding for established researchers and teams from any discipline who want to pursue bold and creative research ideas to deliver significant shifts in understanding that could improve human life, health and wellbeing. The lead applicant must have sponsorship from an eligible host organisation in one of the following: UK, Republic of Ireland, or low- or middle income country (apart from India and mainland China). Applicants must have a permanent, open-ended or long-term rolling contract or equivalent guarantee. Co-applicants can be at any career stage and based anywhere in the world apart from mainland China. For usually 8 years, the funding covers research expenses. More details on the Wellcome Trust website.

27. Wellcome Trust Wellcome Springboard Awards

Organisation

Wellcome Trust and the Academy of Medical Sciences (AMS).

Field

Biomedical research.

Overview

Springboard Awards provide small grants to support basic biomedical scientists as they develop their independent research careers. Applicants must be based in UK research organisations within 5 years of being appointed to their first independent post (such as a lecturer position). Up to £125,000 is funded to cover research assistance and expenses for 2 years. More details on the Wellcome Trust website.

Funding schemes administered in Europe

1. COST Actions

Organisation

European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST).

Field

Interdisciplinary research.

Overview

COST funds interdisciplinary research networks called COST Actions. These Actions bring together researchers, innovators and other professionals including industry specialists, who are based in Europe and in international partner countries including Japan. Researchers collaborate on research topics for a period of 4 years. The funding covers the expenses of networking activities including organising meetings, training schools, short term scientific missions, and other networking activities. More details on the COST website.

2. Canon Foundation in Europe Research Fellowships 

Organisation 

Canon Foundation in Europe.

Field

All fields.

Overview

The foundation annually grants up to 15 Fellowships to highly qualified European and Japanese researchers. All European nationalities including the UK are eligible to apply. Applicants should have obtained at least a Master’s or PhD degree within the last ten years. European Fellows are expected to pursue a period of research in Japan whereas Japanese Fellows are expected to do their research in Europe. Financial support for Research Fellows can reach up to €30,000 per year and pro-rata for different periods. The Research Fellow can decide what costs the grant can be used for. Examples are living costs, travel, insurance, research costs, books, etc. More details on the Canon Foundation website.

3. ERC Starting Grants 

Organisation 

European Research Council.  

Field 

Any field of research 

Overview 

The ERC Starting Grant is a prestigious EU funding scheme open to researchers of any nationality, including non-Europeans, who are 2–7 years post-PhD and demonstrate potential for independent research leadership. Applicants must conduct their research at a host institution located in an EU Member State or Associated Country, though they do not need to be employed there at the time of application. The grant offers up to €1.5 million over 5 years, with an additional €1 million available for relocation and major costs for those moving to Europe. It supports frontier research across all disciplines through a bottom-up approach, with proposals evaluated via international peer review. The grant is portable and allows for international team members, making it an attractive opportunity for globally minded researchers. More details on the European Research Council website. 

4. ERC Consolidator Grants 

Organisation 

European Research Council.  

Field 

Any field of research 

Overview 

The ERC Consolidator Grant is a major EU funding scheme designed for researchers 7–12 years post-PhD who are ready to consolidate their independent research careers. Open to researchers of any nationality, including Japanese, the grant supports projects hosted at institutions in EU Member States or Associated Countries, with no requirement for prior employment at the host institution. It offers up to €2 million over 5 years, with an additional €1 million available for those relocating to Europe to cover major costs. The grant supports frontier research across all disciplines through a bottom-up approach, and allows for international team members and flexible project structures. More details on the European Research Council website. 

5. ERC Advanced Grants 

Organisation 

European Research Council.  

Field 

Any field of research 

Overview 

The ERC Advanced Grant is a prestigious EU funding scheme for established research leaders with a proven track record of significant scientific achievements. Open to researchers of any nationality, including Japanese, it supports ambitious, high-impact projects conducted at host institutions in EU Member States or Associated Countries. Applicants do not need to be employed by the host institution at the time of application. The grant provides up to €2.5 million over 5 years, with an additional €2 million available for researchers relocating to Europe to cover start-up costs, equipment, or access to major facilities. The scheme is bottom-up, supports all disciplines, and allows international team members, making it an excellent opportunity for Japanese researchers aiming to lead frontier research in Europe. More details on the European Research Council website.

Multilateral funding programmes

1. BELMONT FORUM Collaborative Research Action

Organisation

BELMONT FORUM.

Field

Environmental sciences.

Overview

The Belmont Forum has conducted Collaborative Research Actions (CRAs - often including a call for proposals) which support multilateral collaborative research projects (involving more than 3 researchers from different countries) since 2012. Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) as well as the UK Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) are members of the Belmont Forum. Not all Belmont Forum members participate in every CRA. The recent joint calls for CRA include Systems of Sustainable Consumption and Production (2022). More details on the BELMONT FORUM website.

2. HFSP Research Grants – Programme

Organisation

International Human Frontier Science Programme Organisation (HFSPO).

Field

Life sciences and biophysics, chemistry, computational biology, computer science, engineering, mathematics, nanoscience or physics.

Overview

Funding is provided for international collaborations between scientists aiming to address fundamental biological questions that cannot be elucidated in a single laboratory. Particular emphasis will be placed on new collaborations that focus on biological science problems and combine scientists from different research disciplines. A team of 2-4 independent researchers from different countries with less than 5 years of independent research experience and less than 10 years since they obtained PhD is eligible. More details on the HFSPO website.

3. HFSP Research Grants – Early Career

Organisation

International Human Frontier Science Programme Organisation (HFSPO).

Field

Life sciences and biophysics, chemistry, computational biology, computer science, engineering, mathematics, nanoscience or physics.

Overview

Funding is provided for international collaborations between scientists aiming to address fundamental biological questions that cannot be elucidated in a single laboratory. Particular emphasis will be placed on new collaborations that focus on biological science problems and combine scientists from different research disciplines. A team of 2-4 independent researchers from different countries with less than 5 years of independent research experience and less than 10 years since they obtained PhD is eligible. More details on the HFSPO website.

4. HFSP Long-Term Fellowships (LTF)

Organisation

International Human Frontier Science Programme Organisation (HFSPO).

Field

Life sciences (must hold a PhD on a biological topic).

Overview

LTF are for applicants within 3 years of receiving a PhD in the biological sciences who want to embark on a novel project in life sciences. A national of any HFSP member country can apply to work in a research institution in any country. Applicants must have at least one lead author publication by the submission deadline that is either (i) published in a recognized OA preprint repository, (ii) accepted for publication, (iii) in press or (iv) already published by a peer reviewed journal. More details on the HFSPO website.

5. HFSP Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships (CDF)

Organisation

International Human Frontier Science Programme Organisation (HFSPO).

Field

Life sciences (must hold a PhD from a non-biological discipline)

Overview

CDF are for applicants who wish to work in life sciences but within 3 years of receiving a PhD in a non-biological discipline (e.g. physics, chemistry). A national of any HFSP member country can apply to work in a research institution in any country. Applicants must have at least one lead author publication by the submission deadline which is either (i) published in a recognized OA preprint repository, (ii) accepted for publication, (iii) in press or (iv) already published by a peer reviewed journal. More details on the HFSPO website.

This collection of information on funding opportunities is regularly updated. The information contained in this publication is intended for researchers in the UK and Japan to find research funding opportunities to collaborate with partners. While all due care and efforts have been taken in compiling this information, accuracy cannot be guaranteed, and funding information may occasionally change. 

Last updated: December 2025