Harvard Postdoctoral Fellowships in Japanese Studies 2026: $70,000 Award + Research Funds (Apply Now)

The Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies (RIJS) at Harvard University has opened applications for its 2026-27 Postdoctoral Fellowships in Japanese Studies. This is a world-class opportunity for recent PhD graduates to turn their dissertations into publishable manuscripts while conducting research at one of the top universities globally.

Selected fellows will receive a stipend of $70,000 for a 10-month period, along with up to $5,000 in research funds. If you are a scholar in the humanities or social sciences with a focus on Japan, this fellowship provides the financial freedom and academic environment to launch your career. The applicant deadline is December 19, 2025.

Fellowship Overview & Key Details

Program Scope: What Will You Do?

The primary goal of this fellowship is to prepare your dissertation for publication. However, you will also be an active member of the Harvard academic community. Residency: You must reside in the Cambridge/Boston area during the appointment. Presentation: Fellows are expected to give a presentation at the Japan Forum lecture series. Teaching: While not required, teaching one undergraduate course is encouraged and provides valuable pedagogical experience.

Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is strictly for recent doctoral graduates. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

• PhD Date: You must have received your PhD no earlier than 2021.
• Degree Completion: If you are currently a student, you must have completed all requirements for the PhD degree (including the defense and filing) by June 30, 2026.
• Discipline: Your research must be in Japanese studies, within any area of the humanities or social sciences.
• Citizenship: There are no citizenship requirements. Scholars from any country are welcome to apply.

Financial Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive package to ensure you can focus on your work: Stipend: $70,000 for the academic year. Health Insurance: Eligibility for subsidized medical, dental, and vision benefits. Research Funds: Up to $5,000 for travel and research-related expenses. Resources: Office space and full access to Harvard's extensive library system.

How to Apply

The application process is handled via Harvard's ARIeS online system. You will need to submit:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Must include citizenship, current and permanent addresses, and academic history.
2. Research Plan: A detailed plan for your research at Harvard.
3. Dissertation Materials: An abstract, table of contents, and one chapter.
4. Writing Sample: A sample of your scholarly writing.
5. Two Letters of Recommendation: These must be submitted directly by your recommenders by the January 9 deadline.

Note: Recommenders are only notified after you submit your application, so submit early to give them time!

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for Reischauer Fellowship