EMBO and the JST seek to increase interactions between scientists in Japan and Europe.

A memorandum of understanding was signed in July 2023 which is setting a framework of co-operation providing for joint activities that are evolving over time. All activities seek to enhance and foster cooperation between scientists in Japan and Europe.

Japan is host to 23 EMBO Associate Members.

Current calls

Travel grants for EMBO events

JST funded group leaders can apply for a travel grant to attend an EMBO Course, Workshop or Symposium taking place in Europe. Eligible scientists should register directly with the EMBO event organizers to secure admission. To request the travel grant, please complete the travel grant registration form.

Please note that additional funds will be available for lab visits prior or after meeting attendance.

Funding is available for meetings taking place in the fiscal year 2026, i.e. until 31 March 2027.

Browse the list of EMBO events, or see more information on the JST travel grant procedure.

EMBO Lab Leadership courses participation grants

EMBO Lab Leadership courses provide training to enhance leadership, management and communication skills to empower group leaders to effectively run their labs. JST funded group leaders (between 1 – 10 years of experience) are eligible to apply for a grant to attend the courses. The grant covers travel, course fees and accommodation. Additional funding is available for lab visits in Europe around the date of the course.

Courses are held throughout the year close to Heidelberg, Germany.

See more information on the JST application procedure.

EMBO Global Investigator Network

JST funded researchers are eligible to apply to the EMBO Global Investigator Network. The programme supports life scientists who perform life science research in EMBO partners outside of Europe, including Chile, India, Japan (JST funded researchers), Singapore, or Taiwan and have been group leaders for at least one year and for less than six years at the time of application. Selected researchers will receive funding and networking support over four years and gain access to an international network of more than 800 current and former EMBO Young Investigators across and beyond Europe.

The deadline for applications is 1 May annually.

EMBO Young Investigator Programme

JST funded researchers are eligible to apply to the EMBO Young Investigator Programme. The programme supports life scientists who have been group leaders for at least one year and for less than four years at the time of application. Selected researchers will receive funding and networking support over four years and gain access to an international network of more than 800 current and former EMBO Young Investigators across and beyond Europe.

The deadline for applications is 1 April annually.

EMBO Scientific Exchange Grants

JST funded researchers are eligible to apply to the EMBO Scientific Exchange Grants. The grants fund research exchanges of up to three months between laboratories in EMBC and Japan. They facilitate collaborations with research groups to promote transfer of expertise and techniques or provide infrastructure that is unavailable in the applicant’s laboratory, and cover travel and subsistence costs for the fellow.

EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships

EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships support excellent postdoctoral researchers. International mobility is a key requirement.

Researchers from Japan can apply to carry out a postdoc in an EMBC Member State.