JSPS London

JSPS London JSPS London is one of the overseas offices of Japan's leading funding agency, the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science.

JSPS London was established in 1994 to support and facilitate UK-Japan research collaboration as well as to strengthen UK and Japanese university linkages. The London office is one of the ten overseas offices worldwide. Our work does not only focus on science and technology but also on higher education overall. We help to create and develop successful relationships between academic researchers of

the UK and Japan through a wide range of activities to enhance the free-flow and application of cutting edge research between the two countries. We organise scientific symposia, hold the JSPS programme introduction days at universities throughout the UK, and award JSPS Fellowships to Japan. We also support Alumni Association for former UK JSPS Fellows and the UK-based Japanese Researchers Association. One of the many ways in which we achieve our aims is by working closely with partner organisations such as the Royal Society, the British Academy, the Research Councils, the British Council, HEFCE, QAA and UUK, as well as the UK universities. In addition we work on a Japanese Governmental level, for instance with the Science and Technology Task Force in the UK, besides cooperating with the London diplomatic science community. We also work with the Japanese Embassy and other Japanese Governmental agencies in London such as JETRO, the Japan Foundation, the Japanese Local Government Centre (JLGC), JNTO and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the UK (JCCI). We make it our principle aim to foster a relationship of confidence and trust in the international scientific community. It is hoped that through sustaining these strong linkages, knowledge and technological breakthroughs will be developed to overcome global problems.

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】We have been introducing fellows from universities and research institutes i...
21/08/2026

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】

We have been introducing fellows from universities and research institutes in the UK who are researching in Japan. From now on, we also would like to introduce Japanese researchers conducting research in the UK under Overseas Research Fellowship programme, “海外特別研究員(Kaigai Tokubetsu Kenkyuin)” in Japanese. (https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-ab/index.html)

The following is a self-introduction and message for future Japanese research fellows from Dr. Ryo Tachibana, who completed his PhD at Kyoto University and has been conducting his research in the Department of Plant Sciences, Cambridge since April 2025.

(※日本語が英語の後に続きます。)
“I am a JSPS Overseas Research Fellow in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Cambridge. My research investigates how plants regulate chloroplast development and photosynthesis in response to light and hormonal signalling. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to developing crops with enhanced photosynthesis, higher yields, and improved nutritional value.
One thing that surprised me about research life in the UK is that our department has a tea room with two optional tea breaks every day, providing a valuable opportunity for informal discussion. I was also surprised by the remarkable number of pubs and how deeply they are embedded in British social life.
Working abroad brings challenges, but it also offers new perspectives, experiences, and connections. I would encourage researchers interested in working overseas to take the opportunity, even if they do not feel completely prepared. “
“私は現在、⽇本学術振興会海外特別研究員として、ケンブリッジ⼤学植物科学科で研究しています。植物が光や植物ホルモンシグナルに応答して葉緑体 の形成や光合成を制御する仕組みを研究しており、将来的には、光合成能⼒を⾼めることで、収量が多く栄養価にも優れた農作物の開発につなげたいと考えています。
英国で驚いたことは、学科に tea room があり 、毎⽇ 2 回、⾃由参加の tea time が 設けられていることです います。また、パブの数が⾮常に多く、英国の⽣活や交流に深く根付いていることにも驚きました。 気軽な会話や研究交流の貴重な機会になっています。
海外での研究には難しさもありますが、新しい視点や経験、⼈とのつながりを得られます。完全に準備が整っていなくても、海外研究に関⼼があれば挑戦してみることをお勧めします。”

We are grateful to Dr. Ryo Tachibana for sharing his research experience as a JSPS Overseas Research Fellow. We look forward to featuring more JSPS Overseas Research Fellows and sharing their experiences in the UK in future posts!

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】Let us introduce a PhD student from the University of Birmingham who is cond...
14/08/2026

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】

Let us introduce a PhD student from the University of Birmingham who is conducting research in Japan this summer!
Ms. Naya Desai is an awardee of JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Summer Programme. She is currently in Japan conducting research with Dr. Katsunori Furuya, a professor at Chiba University.

She shares her thoughts about research and life in Japan as follows!
“As global temperatures are rising, urban environments are becoming increasingly vulnerable to the harmful effects of extreme weather events, making it imperative to adapt. Urban vegetation is widely recognised Nature-based Solution (NbS) as it provides cooling, mitigates stormwater runoff, improves air quality, etc.; however, to continue providing these benefits, the vegetation itself must remain healthy and resilient under increasing climatic stress. Therefore, my research investigates how climate change affects urban vegetation, particularly its resilience and capacity to support climate adaptation. This work is underpinned by remote sensing, machine learning, and Earth system modelling. During my time here at Chiba University, I have been investigating how Japanese culture may influence vegetation management practices and, in turn, vegetation health through semi-structured interviews with park managers. Subsequently, I will contextualise these findings through remotely sensed vegetation dynamics.

Although this summer has provided me with an immense range of research opportunities, it has also broadened my perspective in many other ways. Japanese culture is so rich and deeply rooted that it can be felt even in small, everyday interactions, such as the casual bow exchanged when passing someone on the street. It has become clear to me that care and respect are highly valued within Japanese society which is something I'm grateful to have experienced. In less abstract terms, I have also personally enjoyed Japan’s firework festivals, getting to meet so many new people, exploring Japan's architecture and design, visiting shrines and temples, and, of course, walking through Tokyo's parks and gardens!

Overall, I would recommend this programme to anyone seeking to broaden their horizons in more than one way. This experience has been truly pivotal for me, both professionally and personally, and I cannot thank JSPS enough. My advice to future JSPS fellows would be to remember that, although there is so much to see, do, and experience while in Japan, it is equally important to pause and take it all in. It genuinely is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

We are delighted to know that her time in Japan has provided valuable opportunities for academic growth while also allowing her to enjoy life outside of work.

Please refer to the following websites if you are interested in our Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Summer Programme or Chiba University.
○Chiba University Website: https://www.chiba-u.ac.jp/e/
○JSPS Website (Summer Programme): https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-fellow/e-summer/index.html

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】Let us introduce a PhD student from the University of Sheffield who is condu...
07/08/2026

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】

Let us introduce a PhD student from the University of Sheffield who is conducting research in Japan this summer!
Ms. Emily Calcraft is an awardee of JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Summer Programme. She is currently in Japan conducting research with Dr. Makiko Takemoto, an associate professor at Hiroshima City University.
She shares her thoughts about research and life in Japan as follows!

“My research focuses on British peace activism in the twentieth century. I have been building a comparative study between Japan and Britain in the hope of expanding our understanding of peace education, both in contemporary and historic contexts. To do so I visited various peace museums and archives across Japan, including the Ritsumeikan museum, the Honkawa Elementary School Peace Museum and Fukuromachi Elementary School Peace Museum in Hiroshima, and the National Diet Library.
The thing that I enjoyed the most in Japan is the Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki. I was surprised by how easy the country was to navigate. The local train systems, street-cars, buses and the shinkansen all make for stress-free journeys.
My advice to future JSPS fellows would be to make sure to reach out to other fellows during your stay and form a network of friends and colleagues. “

We are pleased to learn that she has been enjoying a fulfilling and enriching experience in Japan, both professionally and personally.
Please refer to the following websites if you are interested in our Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Summer Programme or Hiroshima City University.
○Hiroshima City University Website: https://www.hiroshima-cu.ac.jp/en/
○JSPS Website (Summer Programme): https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-fellow/e-summer/index.html

*Fun Fact: There are two styles of okonomiyaki. Hiroshima-style is made by layering the ingredients and typically includes noodles, while Kansai-style is prepared by mixing the ingredients into the batter and usually does not contain noodles. There is a rivalry between the two regions, and people in both areas take great pride in their own version!

On 29th July, we were invited to “UCL-Japan Youth Challenge 2026” as a guest speaker for a session where we introduced J...
03/08/2026

On 29th July, we were invited to “UCL-Japan Youth Challenge 2026” as a guest speaker for a session where we introduced JSPS programmes, researchers’ careers and their various activities to high school students. In our session, Dr. Shin Nishio, also delivered a presentation on his research and life in the UK. He is conducting research on quantum computing in Professor Dan Browne’s group in UCL and is currently a recipient of JSPS Overseas Research Fellowship (https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-ab/index.html).
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Professor Shin-ichi Ohnuma, Deputy Director of International Relations at UCL and Chair of the UCL-Japan Youth Challenge Committee, for inviting us to the session, and to Dr. Shin Nishio for generously sharing his research and experiences with the students.

*“UCL-Japan Youth Challenge” is an annual summer school programme for pre-university students from UK sixth form colleges and Japanese high schools for cultural interaction through various educational activities and events held at UCL and the University of Cambridge. More information is available on the website below.
○UCL-Japan Youth Challenge Website: https://www.ucl-japan-youth-challenge.com/

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】Let us introduce a PhD student from the University of Wi******er who is cond...
31/07/2026

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】

Let us introduce a PhD student from the University of Wi******er who is conducting research in Japan this summer!

Ms. Susan Birch is an awardee of JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Summer Programme. She is currently in Japan conducting research with Professor Atsuko Hayakawa at Tsuda University.
Ms. Susan shares her thoughts about research and life in Japan as follows!
“My research focuses on Marie Stopes (a birth control activist and botanist) and her work in Japan. I am examining the transnational connections she made in Japan (she was one of the first women to travel to Japan for research). For my research I have been based at Tsuda University. I have also visited The University of Tokyo and the botanical gardens (where she was based) and the National Diet Library. I am planning to visit Nagoya and Osaka to use the library and speak to academics about Marie Stopes' work.
I have enjoyed everything about Japan- particularly the connections I have made at the university. Everyone has been so welcoming and interested in my research. I couldn't have asked for more support! On a personal note, I have loved the food and the culture and have been supported by my homestay family. What surprised me was the bus system which is different to England! I have quickly learnt this, however, and have felt really a part of Japanese culture and life.
My advice for future JSPS fellows is to take each opportunity you are given. It is very different but wonderfully so! I am thoroughly enjoying my time here. My other advice would be regular communication with your host which has really helped my development as a researcher. I am most appreciative of her support!”
We are delighted to know that she is having a wonderful time in Japan, both in her research and in her life outside of work!

Please refer to the following website if you are interested in our Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Summer Programme or Tsuda University.
○Tsuda University Website: https://www.tsuda.ac.jp/en/
○JSPS Website (Summer Programme): https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-fellow/e-summer/index.html

（The painting behind her is a famous portrait showing the founder of the Tsuda university.）

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】Let us introduce a PhD candidate from the University of Southampton who is c...
24/07/2026

【🎉Introduction of JSPS Fellowship Awardees🎉】

Let us introduce a PhD candidate from the University of Southampton who is conducting research in Japan this summer!

Mr. Jacob Kleboe (Jake) is an awardee of JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Summer Programme. He is currently in Japan conducting research with Ms. Tomoko Takahashi, a researcher at JAMSTEC: Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology.
He shares his thoughts about research and life in Japan as follows!
“Microplastics are turning up in ecosystems everywhere, and this summer I've been at JAMSTEC working with exceptional researchers developing ways to identify and characterise them more efficiently using spectroscopy and automated analysis methods.
Beyond the research itself, I've loved immersing myself in Japanese culture — the food, the people, and the day-to-day rhythm of life here. The whole summer programme has exceeded my expectations, and I'd recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone considering it.
One piece of advice for future participants (and honestly, any traveller heading to Japan): pack light. You can find almost anything you need here, and everything is remarkably convenient.”
We are delighted to learn that his time in Japan has been both professionally fulfilling and personally enjoyable.

Please refer to the following website if you are interested in our Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan Summer Programme or JAMSTEC: Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology.

○JAMSTEC Website: https://www.jamstec.go.jp/e/index.html
○JSPS Website (Summer Programme): https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-fellow/e-summer/index.html

Do you know where James Bond learned Japanese?On 26th February, we were delighted to support a joint workshop hosted by ...
07/07/2026

Do you know where James Bond learned Japanese?

On 26th February, we were delighted to support a joint workshop hosted by the University of
Cambridge, Kumamoto University and Eisei Bunko.
Eisei Bunko is the prestigious collection of ancestral works of art, manuscript and other
historical materials gathered by Hosokawa Family.
In the event, Professor Mikael S. Adolphson explored how regional studies can continue to
remain relevant and impactful.
Professor Tsuguharu Inaba highlighted the significant role Eisei Bunko plays in deepening our understanding of Japan’s historical development as well as his recent achievement that
enables the scanning and digitisation of historical manuscript utilizing OCR technology.

Fun Fact: James Bond claims that he learned Japanese at the University of Cambridge, in the
film You Only Live Twice !

（※English follows after Japanese.)　JSPSロンドン研究連絡センターは、JSPSとしては初めて、英国・アイルランドの研究機関に所属し、JSPS外国人研究者招へい事業を通じて来日経験を持つ研究者のうち、日本と...
06/07/2026

（※English follows after Japanese.)

　JSPSロンドン研究連絡センターは、JSPSとしては初めて、英国・アイルランドの研究機関に所属し、JSPS外国人研究者招へい事業を通じて来日経験を持つ研究者のうち、日本との新たな共同研究に積極的なPI（Principal Investigator：大学等における研究責任者）を掲載した「英国・アイルランドPIリスト」を作成しました。
　本リストの作成は、当センターが支援してきました「JSPS英国・アイルランド同窓会」や「JBUK: Japanese Researchers Based in the U.K.（在英日本人研究者）」などの研究者ネットワークをさらに発展させ、日本及び英国・アイルランド間の学術研究交流の活性化に貢献することを目的としていますので、是非新たな研究者ネットワークの構築、国際共同研究、産学官連携等にご活用ください。また、当リストを活用し実際にそういった事例に繋がりましたら、当センター（lon-info●overseas.jsps.go.jp : ●を@に置き換えてご利用ください）までご共有頂けますと幸いです。
　さらに、在英国日本国大使館においても、日英間の協力・連携を強化するため、英国で活躍する日本人研究者を「PIマップ」としてリスト化しています。あわせてご参照ください。

英国・アイルランドPIリスト: https://www.jsps.org/upcoming/2026/07/pi-for-fosterin-989a.html
在英国日本国大使館 PIマップ: https://www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_ja/260424pi.html

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
As a first initiative of its kind for JSPS, JSPS London Office has created “the UK/Ireland PI List”, which consists of the researchers based in the UK/Ireland who have previously visited Japan under the JSPS International Fellowships Programme and are keen to start new collaborations with researchers in Japan.
The object of this list is to further develop the researcher’s network that JSPS London Office has been supporting such as JSPS Alumni Association of the UK and the Republic of Ireland and JBUK: Japanese Researchers Based in the UK, and to strengthen academic collaboration between Japan and the UK and Ireland.
We sincerely hope that this list will contribute to the formation of new researcher network, international research collaboration, and industry-academia partnerships. We appreciate if you could inform us when the utilisation of the list leads to those desired outcomes via e-mail*: lon-info●overseas.jsps.go.jp) *Please replace ● with @ when you send an e-amil.
If you wish to be included in or removed from the list, please contact us through e-mail. Please kindly understand that there might unfortunately be cases that we regrettably are unable to add you to the list after careful consideration of the list’s purpose and appropriateness.
In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan has published the PI Map (a list of Japanese Principal Investigators based in the UK) with the aim of strengthening connections between Japanese researchers in the UK and those in Japan.
At JSPS London, we hope that these resources will help to further strengthen collaboration and foster closer research links between the two countries.

〇The UK/Ireland PI List: https://www.jsps.org/upcoming/2026/07/pi-for-fosterin-989a.html
〇PI Map: https://www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_ja/260424pi.html (*The website is all in Japanese.)

On 30th June, our director Masahiko Hara, deputy director Taiki Satow, and International Programme Associate Yuya Yamash...
02/07/2026

On 30th June, our director Masahiko Hara, deputy director Taiki Satow, and International Programme Associate Yuya Yamash*ta, visited University of Portsmouth to give a presentation at a seminar about JSPS International Programmes and have a meeting with researchers at the Research and Innovation department. There were about 40 participants in the seminar across the schools, and we were delighted to have a highly interactive Q&A session.
The Pro Vice-Chancellor Nigel Williams kindly commented that our presentation was informative in that it highlighted that there are funding opportunities to collaborate with researchers beyond the UK.
We also had an insightful meeting with three Japanese researchers at UoP, Senior Lecturer Ryohei Sekido, Professor Kazuya Koyama, and Senior Lecturer Kagari Shibazaki. We mainly discussed how JSPS and universities can promote exchanges for students and early career researchers between Japanese and the UK universities.
We appreciate generous support by the staffs at University of Portsmouth involved with our visit.

Address

London

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 5:30pm
Thursday 9am - 5:30pm
Friday 9am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+442072554660

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when JSPS London posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category