Hiroshima University Global Doctoral Fellowship 2026 — Fully Funded PhD in Japan

The Hiroshima University Global Doctoral Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious and competitive programme designed to attract outstanding international students to pursue doctoral research in Japan. The fellowship supports candidates who plan to begin their PhD studies at Hiroshima University in April 2026 and who demonstrate strong academic ability, research potential, and leadership qualities.

This fellowship enables doctoral students to focus fully on high-level research while contributing to innovation and global knowledge creation.

About the Fellowship

The Global Doctoral Fellowship is part of Hiroshima University’s strategy to nurture next-generation global researchers. The programme supports doctoral students who show:

• Strong academic foundations
• Creative and independent research thinking
• Ability to contribute to science, technology, and society
• Commitment to global and interdisciplinary perspectives

Fellows are expected to engage actively in research activities and contribute to the university’s international research environment.

Objectives of the Programme

The fellowship aims to develop researchers who:

• Possess a broad academic perspective and deep expertise
• Demonstrate sound judgment and problem-solving skills
• Show leadership potential in research and innovation
• Are capable of contributing to scientific and social progress
• Intend to remain engaged in advanced research during and after their doctoral studies

These goals reflect Hiroshima University’s mission to promote peace, sustainability, and global development through education and research.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows receive comprehensive financial and academic support, including:

• Employment as a research fellow at Hiroshima University
• Monthly salary sufficient to cover living expenses in Japan
• Research funding to support doctoral research activities
• Access to advanced laboratories, libraries, and research facilities
• Academic supervision and professional development opportunities

This support structure ensures financial stability and a strong research environment throughout the PhD period.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must generally meet the following requirements:

• Be international students (non-Japanese citizens)
• Plan to enrol in a doctoral programme at Hiroshima University starting in April 2026
• Demonstrate excellent academic performance and research potential
• Meet the admission requirements of the relevant graduate school
• Show strong motivation for long-term engagement in research and innovation

Applicants may apply even if final admission results are pending, provided all conditions are met by the enrolment date.

Key Timeline

• Application deadline: Early January 2026
• Start of fellowship: April 2026

Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare research plans, academic documents, and supervisor communication well in advance of the deadline.

Application Components

Typical application materials include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• A research plan or proposal aligned with Hiroshima University’s strengths
• A statement of purpose or motivation
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Letters of recommendation (if required)

Selection is based on academic merit, research quality, motivation, and alignment with the fellowship’s objectives.

Why Choose Hiroshima University?

Hiroshima University offers:

• A strong international research environment
• Commitment to peace, sustainability, and global cooperation
• Interdisciplinary research opportunities
• Supportive academic culture for international students
• A high quality of life in Hiroshima, Japan

For doctoral candidates seeking rigorous research training with global impact, Hiroshima University provides an excellent setting.

The Hiroshima University Global Doctoral Fellowship 2026 is a rare opportunity for international students to pursue a fully funded PhD in Japan with strong institutional support. By combining financial stability, advanced research infrastructure, and a global academic community, this fellowship empowers doctoral students to focus on innovation, discovery, and long-term research careers.