2026 Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers
The Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers (Japan Award) is now open for nominations for its 20th presentation in 2026. Established in 2007, the award recognizes exceptional young researchers from developing countries who have demonstrated excellence in research and development in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and related fields. The program aims to encourage innovation, strengthen global scientific collaboration, and inspire the next generation of leaders in agricultural science.
The deadline for submission is May 15, 2026 (JST).
About the Japan International Award
The Japan Award seeks to boost motivation among young researchers working to improve agricultural systems in developing regions. Through this award, the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) highlights researchers whose work contributes to sustainable food production, environmental stewardship, and technological advancement in agriculture.
Up to three awardees will be selected through a competitive international evaluation process conducted by the selection committee.
Eligibility Criteria
Nominees must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be researchers from a developing country or territory.
- Be under 40 years old as of January 1, 2026.
- Be affiliated with a non-Japanese research institute or university.
- Be actively engaged in research and development related to agriculture, forestry, fisheries, or related industries in developing regions.
Candidates must also satisfy at least one of the following conditions:
- Have demonstrated outstanding performance in research that benefits agricultural development in a developing region.
- Have achieved research results that show strong potential for future technological innovation.
Applicants who were not selected in previous years may re-apply.
Awardees must, in principle, be able to attend the awarding ceremony in Japan and deliver a lecture.
Award Components
Up to three selected researchers will receive:
- An official testimonial, awarded by the Chairman of the AFFRC during the awarding ceremony
- A cash prize of USD 5,000, supported through the MOTAI–JIRCAS Award
- An invitation to Japan for the ceremony and related events
The MOTAI–JIRCAS Award is funded by a donation from Mr. Shigeru Motai, former Chairman of the AFFRC of MAFF, and is administered by JIRCAS.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted by the recommending research institutes, whether Japanese or non-Japanese. Each institute may recommend only one researcher, including any branch institutions.
Application Deadline:
May 15, 2026 (Friday, JST)
Key phases of the 2026 cycle:
- Nomination submission deadline: May 15, 2026
- Selection and determination of awardees: August or September 2026 (tentative)
- Awarding Ceremony: October or November 2026 (tentative)
Nomination packages must include all required forms, including the application form, self-advertisement sheet, research achievements list, and checklist, along with supporting documentation. Complete guidelines and templates are provided in the official application materials.
Purpose and Impact
The Japan Award plays a vital role in supporting scientific talent in the Global South. By elevating the work of young researchers, the award encourages innovations that can strengthen food security, enhance climate resilience, and transform agricultural technologies in developing regions.
Awardees become part of a global network committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and contributing to improved livelihoods and food systems worldwide.
Submission Details
Applications must be submitted by post to the Secretariat of the Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers, at the JIRCAS Headquarters in Tsukuba, Japan.
Application Deadline: May 15, 2026 (JST)
Announcement of Winners: August–September 2026 (tentative)
Award Ceremony: October–November 2026 (tentative)
To further strengthen its global impact, the Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers also serves as a bridge between scientific innovation and real-world application. By bringing awardees to Japan for the ceremony and lecture delivery, the programme fosters international exchange, collaboration, and the sharing of cutting-edge knowledge across continents. This in-person engagement not only elevates the visibility of young scientists but also exposes them to Japan’s advanced research ecosystem, encouraging long-term partnerships that can accelerate agricultural transformation in developing regions.
Application can be accessed from here.
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