The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science has announced updated guidelines and procedures for its Bilateral Joint Research Projects and Joint Seminars under the FY2027 application cycle. The program is designed to strengthen international academic cooperation, support researcher mobility, and promote collaborative scientific advancement between Japan and partner countries.
The initiative continues JSPS’s long-standing role in facilitating cross-border research cooperation, with new calls introduced in partnership with institutions including CONICET (Argentina) and AID (Uzbekistan). The updated cycle reflects expanded global engagement and renewed emphasis on structured, competitive research funding opportunities.
Overview of Bilateral Research Cooperation Programs
The Bilateral Programs under JSPS are structured to support two main funding categories:
- Joint Research Projects, focused on collaborative academic research between Japanese and overseas institutions
- Joint Seminars, designed to promote academic exchange, discussion, and knowledge sharing through organized international workshops
These programs are intended to enhance:
- Scientific collaboration between Japan and partner countries
- Exchange of early-career and senior researchers
- Development of sustainable international research networks
- Advancement of priority scientific fields through joint innovation
The framework emphasizes institutional approval, structured application processes, and alignment with national research priorities.
Application Procedure for Japanese Teams
Applications under the JSPS Bilateral Programs must be submitted through an official online application system. The process is standardized to ensure institutional verification and compliance with funding rules.
The procedure includes the following steps:
- Download and complete the required application forms in Word format
- Access the applicant login portal through the designated system (Japanese interface)
- Enter application data into the online submission form
- Upload completed application documents via the system interface
- Review all submitted information for accuracy before final transmission
- Submit the application through institutional approval channels prior to JSPS review
It is noted that all applications must first be approved by the applicant’s affiliated institution before formal submission is accepted by JSPS.
Key Submission Requirements
Applicants are required to comply with strict submission standards, including:
- Use of official JSPS application templates only
- Submission via the designated electronic system
- Institutional endorsement prior to deadline submission
- Full completion of both project details and supporting documentation
- Adherence to formatting and procedural guidelines outlined in the call documents
Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances, and institutions may impose earlier internal deadlines.
Schedule of Application Calls for FY2027 Cycle
The JSPS Bilateral Joint Research and Seminar program follows a structured timeline for the FY2027 cycle:
- June 2026: Official open call announcement published
- 3 September 2026 (Thursday, 5:00 p.m.): Application submission deadline
- Late December 2026: Notification of application results
- April 2027 onward: Project commencement period begins
This schedule is designed to allow sufficient time for institutional review, international coordination, and research planning prior to project initiation.
Updated Application Guidelines and Partner Expansion
The FY2027 cycle introduces revised application guidelines, with updated sections highlighted in official documentation. The revisions aim to improve clarity, streamline procedures, and align with evolving international research standards.
Key updates include:
- Introduction of new bilateral calls with selected international partners
- Revised procedural guidance for application submission
- Clarified documentation requirements for research and seminar proposals
- Updated formatting and submission instructions for digital processing
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the full guidelines before submission to ensure compliance with all requirements.
Available Application Materials
JSPS provides downloadable application documents for different program types:
- Joint Research Project application forms (PDF and Word formats)
- Joint Seminar application forms (PDF and Word formats)
- Supplementary notes for application writing and preparation (PDF format)
These materials are mandatory for all applicants and must be used without modification to ensure eligibility.
Contact and Administrative Information
For inquiries related to application procedures and funding usage, JSPS provides dedicated administrative contact points:
- International Research Cooperation Division II, International Program Department
- Kojimachi Business Center Building, Tokyo, Japan
Contact channels include telephone support lines and official email communication for both application-related questions and funding administration support.
Key contact categories include:
- Application call inquiries and eligibility clarification
- Funding usage and compliance questions
- Technical support for application submission systems
Strategic Importance of JSPS Bilateral Programs
The Bilateral Programs play a significant role in advancing Japan’s international research strategy by:
- Promoting global academic partnerships
- Supporting scientific innovation across disciplines
- Encouraging mobility of researchers between institutions
- Strengthening long-term bilateral cooperation agreements
By facilitating structured international collaboration, the program contributes to both academic development and diplomatic scientific engagement.
Conclusion
The FY2027 JSPS Bilateral Joint Research Projects and Seminars call represents a continued expansion of Japan’s international research cooperation framework. With updated guidelines, defined timelines, and strengthened global partnerships, the program provides a structured pathway for researchers to engage in collaborative scientific work across borders.
Applicants are advised to carefully follow submission procedures, adhere to deadlines, and consult official documentation to ensure successful application outcomes.
