Study in Japan | OIST Visiting Scholarship (TSVP) 2026
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) has officially opened applications for its esteemed Theoretical Sciences Visiting Program (TSVP) for the academic year 2026. Launched in 2021, this program has been designed to draw outstanding researchers from around the globe to Okinawa, fostering a vibrant environment for interdisciplinary collaboration.
The TSVP offers visiting scholars a chance to work in a beautiful location known for its biodiversity and cultural heritage. Participants can engage in advanced research, connect with other experts, and contribute to scientific advancements through the sharing of ideas. This program enriches OIST’s academic environment.
A Foundation for Unrestricted Research
The Visiting Scholars program enables researchers to stay at OIST for 3–12 months, conducting independent projects while collaborating with one or more of the institute’s Research Units. This opportunity differs from conventional academic positions in that it has no teaching responsibilities. Participants are anticipated to impart their knowledge via a general-audience lecture during their first month, with further seminars, short courses, or outreach activities highly recommended.
For individuals on sabbatical or leave from other universities, the role offers an ideal mix of autonomy and scholarly interaction. In rare situations, financial assistance for salaries might be evaluated to facilitate visits.
Scholarship Coverage
Selected candidates will be provided with an extensive support package that encompasses:
- Funding for travel to and from Okinawa
- Accommodation is offered throughout the visit
- Coverage of living expenses at a per diem rate.
- Support for scholars and their families during relocation and after arrival.
- Access to OIST’s welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere, featuring amenities like childcare, health services, and assistance for dual-career couples.
Eligibility Requirements
For consideration, candidates must:
- Possess a Ph.D. in a related discipline.
- Then, act as autonomous investigators at the stage of a senior postdoctoral fellow, early-career group leader, or academic staff at a research-oriented organization.
- Also, possess research interests in any theoretical field, encompassing but not restricted to mathematics, physics, computational sciences, chemistry, engineering, or biological sciences.
- Lastly, show willingness to participate in OIST’s interdisciplinary goals and community involvement.
Required Documents
The necessary documents comprise:
- A resume that includes a publication list.
- A 1–2 page research proposal detailing previous efforts, proposed research at OIST, and possibilities for collaboration with OIST departments.
- A title and summary for the required general-audience presentation.
- Discretionary proposals for workshops, short courses, or community engagement events.
- OIST intends to welcome as many as 30 Visiting Scholars for FY2026.
How to Apply
Submissions are only accepted through Interfolio.
Schedule & Timeframes
The deadline for full consideration for applications is September 15, 2025, and only those submitted by this date will ensure a review. To be eligible for funding through this call, the suggested visits must commence between April 2026 and March 2027. Candidates can anticipate receiving notification of the final selection outcomes by December 31, 2025, at the latest.
Regarding selection, applications will be evaluated based on several important criteria. The committee will strongly focus on the scientific merit of the proposal and its potential to enhance knowledge. The applicant’s capability to partake in interdisciplinary partnerships and offer significant advantages to OIST’s varied research units will also be crucial.
Attention will also be paid to preserving diversity and ensuring representation among various academic career levels. Ultimately, organized lectures, seminars, and outreach efforts, like general-audience presentations, career advice, or short courses, will be recognized as significant parts of the scholar’s input to the OIST community.
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 2026 The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) has officially opened){kind=link}