JF Next Gen Japan Visiting Professor Grants 2026
The Social Science Research Council (SSRC) is now accepting applications for its JF Next Gen Japan Visiting Professor Grants 2026. This program is designed to foster academic exchange between Japan and the United States by enabling U.S. institutions to host visiting professors from Japan for short-term teaching, research, and collaboration activities.
📖 About the Program
The SSRC–JF Next Generation Japan Studies Development Program is supported by the Japan Foundation. It aims to promote international academic dialogue and interdisciplinary learning across universities and colleges. The program allows U.S. institutions to host Japanese professors for short-term affiliations, enhancing academic collaboration between the two nations.
🎁 Benefits
The program provides funding of up to $20,000 for a six-week affiliation. Stays shorter than six weeks will be prorated. These funds can be used for the following:
- International airfare between Japan and the U.S. (economy class)
- Lodging for up to 42 nights
- Per diem for up to 42 days
- Research expenses for the visiting professor
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applications must be submitted by the host institution, and the following criteria apply:
Host Institution Requirements:
- Must be a U.S.-based college, college consortium, or university with 501(c)3 status or qualifying tax-exempt status.
Visiting Professor Requirements:
- Must be a full-time faculty member at an institution of higher education based in Japan.
- Must hold a PhD in the social sciences, humanities, or a related field, conducting research on topics directly related to Japan.
- Must be able to spend a continuous three- to six-week period in the United States at the host institution or consortium of institutions.
📝 Application Process
All applications must be submitted online through the SSRC’s application portal. The application consists of the following components:
- Cover Sheet
- Engagement Plan: Agreed upon by both the visiting professor and the host institution(s), detailing events such as:
- Public lecture series
- Guest lectures
- Seminars
- Networking meetings
- Research discussions
- CV of the visiting scholar
- Letter of Confirmation from the host institution or consortium, including:
- Commitment to host the visiting scholar
- Commitment to implementing the engagement plan
- Description of the benefit to the academic and local community
- Statement of Interest from the visiting professor, including:
- How the professor would benefit from the visiting professorship
- What the professor hopes to provide to the host institution(s)
- Commitment to implementing the engagement plan
📅 Application Deadline
The deadline to apply is 01 July, 2026.
🔗 Additional Information
For more details about the program, visit the official SSRC - JF Next Gen Japan Visiting Professor Grants page.
This opportunity is an excellent way to strengthen academic ties between Japan and the U.S. while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and cultural exchange. Don't miss the chance to apply!
- Up to $20,000 for a six-week affiliation
- International Airfare between Japan and the US (economy class)
- Lodging for 42 nights
- Per Diem for 42 days
- Visiting Professor research expenses
