RIKEN RPAS (RIKEN Program for Advancing Strategic International Research and Personnel Development) is a division of RIKEN, Japan’s largest and most comprehensive research institution for basic and applied science. Headquartered in Wako, RIKEN operates multiple research centers across Japan and is internationally recognized for excellence in physics, chemistry, biology, medical science, engineering, computational science, and interdisciplinary research.
RIKEN is now inviting applications for the FY2027 Special Postdoctoral Researcher (SPDR) Program. This prestigious program seeks young, creative, independent researchers ready to make significant contributions to world-class research across diverse scientific disciplines. Science Careers
Position Title: Special Postdoctoral Researcher (SPDR) – FY2027
Employer: RIKEN RPAS
Location: Japan
Number of Openings: Approximately 70 positions
Application Period: February 10, 2026 – April 9, 2026
Closing Date: April 2, 2026
Research Fields
Applicants may apply in research areas aligned with ongoing research at RIKEN, including:
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Mathematical Sciences (Pure & Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Information Science, Artificial Intelligence)
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Physics I (Particle, Nuclear, Astrophysics)
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Physics II (Condensed Matter and related areas)
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Chemistry
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Biology (Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Plant Biology, Structural Biology, Microbiology, Imaging & Measurement, Basic Brain Science)
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Medical Science (Brain Medical Science, Immunology, Oncology, Genome Science)
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Engineering (Related to research conducted at RIKEN)
Qualifications
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Demonstrated ability to independently and responsibly pursue a research project.
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Additional details available on the official SPDR website:
www.riken.jp/en/careers
Salary & Benefits
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Monthly Salary: 550,000 JPY (gross)
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Commuting Allowance: Actual cost up to 150,000 JPY per month
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Housing Allowance: Partial rent support
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Research Budget:
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1,000,000 JPY per year
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Additional competitive funding of up to 1,000,000 JPY (maximum twice during the 3-year term)
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Contract Type: Fixed-term (3 years)
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted within the official application period. Detailed eligibility criteria, required documents, and submission guidelines are available on the official SPDR webpage.
Contact Information
SPDR Desk
Research Personnel Development Section
RIKEN
2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198 Japan
Email: wakate@ml.riken.jp