JSPS Kaitoku Application Guide

A. Important

Application forms come in two types: FORM A (English version) and FORM B (Japanese version).
They can be downloaded from FIC's website.
(http://www.fic.nih.gov/programs/research_grants/jsps/index.htm)

Be sure NOT to alter the size or format, except size and font of characters, which must be font size 11, of the forms, or to copy the contents of other applicants. Incomplete, altered or otherwise flawed applications will be rejected. JSPS may withdraw the fellowship, stop allowances, or request the return of money already paid if the fellowship has been awarded on the basis of false statements in the application form.

The Application Form includes a border line, thus the applicant is not allowed to change the format or add extra pages, please write within the space provided. The citations should be included in this space too. More than ten citations are acceptable. However, the number of citations will be limited by the remaining space within the border provided. It is up to the applicant to write what he/she wishes and what he/she considers most important.

If applicant holds a M.D. (Medical Doctor) degree only then the applicant is not qualified. If the applicant has a M.D./Ph.D., then he/she may apply to the program.

If you handwrite the application, observe the following points.
1. Print neatly in black ink or with black pen.
2. Do not cut and paste anything on the application form.
3. If you need to make modifications, do not use white-out, but draw double line through deleted words.

Letter of invitation: Submit only one letter of invitation from your NIH host researcher (sponsor/mentor). The letter must clearly state a commitment in terms of both salary and research resources by the host lab to sponsor you. The invitation should not be contingent on the receipt of a JSPS fellowship award. The letter must also include a brief description of the applicant's research project from the sponsor's perspective.

Certificate of PhD degree: Certification must take the form of a diploma with the original seal and signature (not a photocopy) from the university issuing the doctoral degree (in Japanese if issued by a Japanese university). It must be attached to the application form. This document does not need to be translated into English.

FORM A:
1. Write in English
2. Item 11. Education Background and item 12. Previous Employment: Start from the most recent.
3. Item 14. Past Research and Achievement: Describe the main points of your own research work and results. Do not use extra pages.
4. Item 15. Research Plan at NIH: The proposal should include purpose and methods. Break down your research plan into annual segments. Do not use extra pages.
5. Item 16. Special Meaning to Research at NIH: Include the relationship between your past research and host researcher/laboratory at NIH, and the need or significance of doing your research at NIH in comparison with other research institutions (researchers).
6. Item 17. Scholarly Achievements: Include achievements whereby you played a center part in the 5 items listed below. Underline your name.
  1. Selected peer-reviewed publications (in chronological order)
  2. Reviews and critiques
  3. Presentations at international conferences (poster/oral)
  4. Presentations in Japan
  5. Patents (applied/being processed/obtained)
FORM B:

Write in Japanese except host institution/researcher/position at NIH.
This should be consistent with FORM A
Item 3: Current Institution: Do not use abbreviation.
Item 13. Research Plan at NIH: State clearly your research plan and purpose within one page. Do not use extra page.

Amended April 2008