Deadline: May 15, 2026
The Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers 2026 is now open for nominations. This prestigious international award recognises outstanding young scientists from developing countries who are making significant contributions to agricultural research and innovation.
Organised annually to promote global agricultural advancement, the award highlights impactful research that supports food security, environmental sustainability, and technological development across developing regions.
About the Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers 2026
The Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers 2026 is organised by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) in Japan.
The award aims to:
- Encourage innovative agricultural research in developing regions
- Strengthen international scientific collaboration
- Recognise emerging leaders in agriculture, forestry and fisheries
- Support future technological breakthroughs that address global food and environmental challenges
The 2026 edition marks the 20th presentation of this distinguished award.
Focus Areas
The award is open to research in:
- Agriculture
- Forestry
- Fisheries
- Food systems
- Environmental sciences
- Related fields that contribute to sustainable development in developing countries
Applicants must demonstrate either:
- Outstanding research achievements with clear benefits to developing regions; or
- Research accomplishments that show strong potential for future technological innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers 2026, nominees must:
- Be a national of a developing country or territory.
- Be under 40 years of age as of 1 January 2026.
- Be affiliated with a non-Japanese university or research institute.
- Be actively engaged in research and development in relevant agricultural or environmental fields.
- Be nominated by their institution (individual applications are not accepted).
Important Note:
- Direct applications are not permitted.
- Each research institute may nominate only one candidate.
Award Benefits
Up to three awardees will be selected.
Each winner will receive:
- A formal testimonial presented in Japan by the Chairman of the Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Research Council
- A cash prize of USD 5,000 funded through the MOTAI–JIRCAS Award
- An invitation to Japan to attend the award ceremony
- An opportunity to deliver a commemorative lecture
This recognition significantly enhances the international visibility and credibility of early-career agricultural researchers.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026 (Japan Standard Time)
- Notification of Results: August–September 2026
- Award Ceremony: October–November 2026
All nomination documents must be submitted by post through the recommending institution to the JIRCAS Secretariat in Tsukuba, Japan.
Late submissions will not be considered.
Why You Should Consider This Award
The Japan International Award for Young Agricultural Researchers 2026 offers:
- Global recognition for impactful agricultural research
- International exposure and networking opportunities
- Enhanced credibility for career advancement
- A platform to showcase innovations addressing food security and climate resilience
For young researchers committed to transforming agricultural systems in developing countries, this award represents a significant professional milestone.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the nominee’s institution. Ensure that all required documents are completed accurately and sent before the deadline.
If you require support with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
