We are happy to share that the first research collaboration fund between Imperial and Science Tokyo is now open to applications until 31 July 2026. There are also several emerging Japan-UK funding opportunities available to support long-term research partnerships.
This new fund aims to support new, early-stage collaboration between academics and researchers at Imperial and Institute of Science Tokyo. Researchers from both universities are eligible to apply.
This is an open call, and research proposals aligned with the themes under Imperial’s School of Convergence Science and Science Tokyo’s Visionary Initiatives are particularly encouraged to apply.
Deadline to apply: 31 July 2026
Other Japan-UK Funding Opportunities
(1) Expression of interest: Japan-UK joint call for collaborations in Advanced Connectivity Technologies
This joint call between EPSRC and NICT aims to encourage Japan-UK collaborations on advanced connectivity technologies. Research related to integration of AI in digital networks, non-terrestrial networks, and advanced optical and photonics are encouraged to apply.
UK applicants must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for EPSRC funding. Japanese applicants must be eligible for NICT funding.
Deadline to apply: 8 September 2026, 16:00 (BST)
(2) Japan Science and Technology Agency: Changes to CREST program funding eligibility for overseas collaborators
The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) recently announced an increased focus on internationalisation, encouraging research collaborations between Japanese and overseas institutions. As of April 2026, overseas collaborators applying as Co-Principal Investigators to the CREST program may also be considered for funding from JST with suitable justification.
Applications typically open annually in April. For more information, please see the JST website for future funding calls and application guidelines
Read Institute of Science Tokyo & Imperial Collaboration Fund 2026-27 in full