Postdoctoral Fellowship – University of Tokyo

About the Fellowship

Tokyo College at the University of Tokyo invites outstanding early-career researchers (Postdoctoral Fellowship) from the humanities, social sciences, sciences, engineering, and medicine to join its vibrant, interdisciplinary research community. Centred on the theme “The Earth and Human Society in 2050”, this fellowship addresses pressing global challenges through collaborative and innovative scholarship. Fellows will explore one or more of five thematic areas, from sustainable futures and digital transformation to cultural understanding and the value of life in future societies. This three-year programme offers an exceptional platform for developing original research, engaging in cross-disciplinary dialogue, and fostering public engagement beyond academia. With world-class facilities, strong institutional support, and the opportunity for international collaboration, the fellowship aligns with Japan’s and the University’s commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future for humanity.

Fellowship / Details

Position Title: Postdoctoral Fellow
Host Institution: University of Tokyo – Tokyo College
Administering Body / Funding Agency: University of Tokyo
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Research Field(s): Open to all academic disciplines
Fellowship Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship – Full-time
Level: Early-career researchers (Recognised Researcher – R2)
Fellowship Duration: Three years (non-extendable)
Expected Start Date: 1 April, 1 July, 1 October, or 1 December 2026
Working Hours: 09:00–17:45 (with discretionary labour system option)
Funding/Compensation: Annual gross salary JPY 6,360,000
Required Degree/Diploma: Doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in a relevant field.

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Open to all academic disciplines, including but not limited to:

Cultural Studies
Anthropology
Communication Sciences
Arts
Psychological Sciences
Political Sciences
Religious Studies
Management Sciences
Literature
History
Ethics in Health & Physical Sciences
Language Sciences
Law
Economics
Education
Ethics in Natural Sciences & Social Sciences
Geography
Sociology
Philosophy
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
Astronomy
Geosciences
Biological Sciences
Agricultural Sciences
Medical Sciences
Environmental Science
Technology

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Doctoral degree in a relevant field
Demonstrated ability to conduct independent and collaborative research
Commitment to interdisciplinary engagement and public outreach

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong publication record
International research experience
Evidence of public engagement activities

Not Eligible:

Candidates unable to commence within the listed start dates
Those who do not meet the doctoral qualification requirement

Fellowship/Job Benefits

Annual salary: JPY 6,360,000
Health insurance, pension, unemployment insurance, and accident compensation insurance
Annual paid vacation and special paid leave
Research environment with office/lab space and institutional resources