Canon Foundation Research Fellowships 2027 in Europe and Japan (Funding up to €30,000)
The Canon Foundation in Europe has officially announced applications for the Canon Foundation Research Fellowships 2027, offering up to €30,000 in funding for researchers wishing to conduct independent research in Europe or Japan. This prestigious fellowship is designed to encourage academic exchange between European countries and Japan by supporting researchers for 3 to 12 months.
Unlike many traditional research grants, this fellowship gives applicants the freedom to design their own research project and choose their host institution, making it an excellent opportunity for scholars looking for international collaboration without being tied to a rigid academic structure.
The fellowship supports European researchers conducting research in Japan, and Japanese researchers conducting research in Europe, helping strengthen scientific and academic cooperation between the two regions.
Degree Level
The Canon Foundation Research Fellowships 2027 are available for applicants holding:
- Master’s Degree
- PhD Degree
Applicants must have obtained their qualification within the last ten years, although exceptions may be considered in special circumstances.
Available Subjects
The fellowship is open to applicants from all academic disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
- Medical Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Arts
- Technology
There are no subject restrictions, allowing researchers from any field to apply.
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive funding of up to €30,000 per year, depending on the project duration. The fellowship can be used flexibly for:
- Living expenses
- Travel costs
- Research materials
- Insurance
- Equipment
- Accommodation expenses
This flexible funding structure allows researchers to allocate funds according to the needs of their project, making it one of the most adaptable research fellowships currently available.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
The Canon Foundation Research Fellowships 2027 stand out because of their research freedom and flexibility. Unlike fellowships linked to a university partnership or a predefined project, this programme allows candidates to:
- Choose their own host institution
- Develop an independent research proposal
- Use the funding according to their research needs
- Gain international academic exposure
This makes it especially attractive for early-career and mid-career researchers seeking independent international mobility.
Eligible Nationalities
The fellowship is open to:
- European nationals from all European countries
- Applicants from the United Kingdom
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- Balkan countries
- Baltic countries
- Japanese nationals
European applicants must conduct their research in Japan, while Japanese applicants must carry out research in Europe.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Hold at least a Master’s or PhD degree
- Have obtained the degree within the last 10 years (exceptions possible)
- Secure a host institution in the destination country before applying
- Demonstrate a clear, well-structured research proposal
- Provide strong academic references
- Show relevance and feasibility of the proposed international research collaboration
- First-time mobility between Europe and Japan is often prioritized
The programme is highly competitive, with an estimated success rate of around 10%.
Application Procedure
Applicants must complete the application process online through the official Canon Foundation portal.
Steps to Apply:
- Prepare a Research Proposal
Develop a clear and detailed research plan explaining your objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. - Find a Host Institution
Secure acceptance from a host university or research institution in Europe or Japan. - Gather Required Documents
Prepare the necessary documents, including:- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- CV/Resume
- Recommendation letters
- Host institution acceptance letter
- Research proposal
- Submit Online Application
Upload all required documents and submit the application before the deadline.
Applicants are encouraged to begin early, as obtaining host institution approval may take time.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the Canon Foundation Research Fellowships 2027 is:
15 September 2026
Applications are reviewed annually, and final results are expected by mid-December 2026.
The Canon Foundation Research Fellowships 2027 provide a valuable opportunity for researchers aiming to build international academic collaborations between Europe and Japan. With flexible funding, open subject eligibility, and independent research freedom, this fellowship is an excellent option for scholars ready to expand their research horizons globally.
