The Graduate School of Science at Tohoku University invites applications for Tenure-Track Assistant Professor or Associate Professor (Principal Investigator) positions. A total of three positions are available for highly motivated researchers who aim to lead internationally recognized research programs. The appointment is for a maximum tenure-track period of 7 years, with a tenure review conducted by the sixth year. Successful candidates will be promoted to Associate Professor or Professor with a permanent position, with the possibility of early tenure promotion based on outstanding achievements. Selected faculty will establish and lead an independent research laboratory and conduct innovative research in core scientific fields or interdisciplinary areas. Science Careers
Institution: Tohoku University, Japan
Location: Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
Application Deadline: April 20, 2026 (12:00 Noon JST)
Position Type: Full-Time | Tenure-Track Faculty
Organization: Academia
Research Fields
Applicants from all areas of science are welcome, particularly within:
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Astronomy
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Geophysics
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Chemistry
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Earth Science
Interdisciplinary research bridging multiple scientific disciplines is highly encouraged.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
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Ph.D. degree by the time of appointment
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Strong international research achievements in a relevant field
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Demonstrated ability to conduct original and innovative research
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Potential to establish and manage an independent laboratory as PI
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Interest in interdisciplinary collaboration and emerging research areas
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Strong English communication skills
Priority consideration will be given to Early-to-Mid-Career Researchers (EMCRs) who received their Ph.D. within the last 10 years.
Funding & Support
Successful candidates will receive substantial research support:
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Start-up Fund: Up to 10 million JPY in the first year
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Basic Research Fund: Up to 4 million JPY annually for up to six years
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Office and laboratory space at Aobayama Campus
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Access to university housing (subject to availability)
Salary (Approximate)
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Assistant Professor: 6 – 8 million JPY annually
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Associate Professor: Up to 10 million JPY annually
Salary is determined based on experience and research performance.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a single PDF (max 10 MB) containing:
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Curriculum Vitae with research achievements and professional activities
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Research Activity Plan (max 5 pages) including:
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Summary of past research
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Future research plan
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Planned use of research funding
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Additional details (personal information, research identifiers, referees, and department preference) must be entered through the application form.
Selection Process
Stage 1: Document screening (results by mid-June 2026)
Stage 2: Interview and reference review (July 10–31, 2026)
The interview may be conducted on-site at Tohoku University or online.
Earliest Start Date: After January 1, 2027
Diversity & Inclusion
Tohoku University actively promotes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and welcomes applicants from all nationalities, genders, and cultural backgrounds. The university also provides spousal employment support and extensive childcare facilities to support work–life balance.
Application Link
Apply here: Application Form