Open Call for Visiting Scholars FY2027
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is inviting applications for Visiting Scholars through its Visiting Program.
The Visiting Scholars program is established for independent researchers from any field who propose an extended research visit to OIST, normally lasting three to twelve months. Applicants will normally hold a faculty, independent group-leader, or equivalent position.
Each applicant must have the support of at least one OIST full-time faculty member, who will act as the primary faculty host for the proposed visit.
Eligibility
Applicants must hold a faculty position, independent group-leader position, or an equivalent appointment. Applicants must identify a primary OIST faculty host and explain the expected benefit of the visit to OIST.
OIST is an institution with no departments, which aims to eliminate barriers between people working in different fields. We are an equal opportunity educator and employer committed to enhancing and supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the university community. As such, we are actively working to increase the diversity of our faculty, students, and staff, and cultivating an environment where all members can thrive and are valued. We have implemented policies to engender and cultivate a diverse, inclusive, and family-friendly culture. These include supporting dual career couples, gender-neutral facilities, pro-active equity-focused policies including “stop-the-clock” options, an on-site bilingual childcare facility and after-school programs, an on-site health center, and relocation and post-arrival support. Further details can be found at https://www.oist.jp/.
To fully realize our vision of promoting scientific excellence through a diverse and inclusive community, OIST is actively seeking applications from women and underrepresented groups. Please contact us at tsvp@oist.jp if you have any questions or concerns.
*Click here for full size poster in PDF format
Application Documents
- CV including a list of publications.
- Research proposal describing the proposed work at OIST.
- Identification of a proposed OIST host faculty, with a brief description of the anticipated research connection.
- A support letter from the OIST faculty host (submitted through Interfolio)
- An OIST engagement plan, for example, a proposed course, hands-on session, seminar series, mentoring activity, or other contributions to the wider OIST community.
- Proposed visit dates and justification for the requested duration.
- Estimated budget, including travel, housing, and any other requested support.
- Documentation confirming current employment status may be requested at a later stage
All visits are subject to the availability of funding. To be considered for this year’s funding, the applicant’s intended stay should start between April 2027 and March 2028.
Applications received by September 15th, 2026 are guaranteed full consideration.
Application through Interfolio
Applications are only accepted via Interfolio, please click the link above.
IMPORTANT: Current students are NOT eligible to apply as Visiting Scholars.
We expect to inform applicants of the selection results no later than 31 December 2026.
Successful candidates' name, home institution, field of research, and visit dates will be listed on the OIST website.
Informal inquiries are welcome: please contact tsvp@oist.jp
Before making an inquiry, please check the eligibility criteria, application requirements, application FAQ, and Information for Visitors. We will not respond to inquiries regarding the status of individual applications or topics already covered on the website.
(Also see this overview of all OIST's Visiting Programs for other options)
Financial and logistical support
OIST may provide financial and logistical support for approved visitors, subject to available funding. Support may include some or all of the following:
• round-trip economy-class airfare for the invited visitor, subject to a cap
• on-campus accommodation, subject to availability;
• office space
• access to basic institutional facilities
• logistical and administrative support
Applicants and OIST faculty hosts are expected to identify available support from the applicant’s home institution, research grants, the host Unit, or other sources. The type and amount of OIST support will be determined following selection and may not cover the full cost of the visit.
Data Storage Acknowledgment
Please note that the information you enter will be transferred to, stored, and processed on Interfolio servers located in the U.S.A. OIST is committed to handling your personal data in accordance with applicable privacy laws, including Japan’s Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI), and to taking appropriate safeguards.
