The Research Support: Challenge Support Category from the Yamada Science Foundation supports basic research in the natural sciences by researchers who have new ideas they cannot test, or who can no longer continue important long-running fundamental studies.
The foundation especially favors steady, long-term work and projects that challenge established concepts in their fields. Applied research, such as developing new medical treatments, is not eligible. The program is funded through a major donation from Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
Applications are open to researchers holding a doctoral degree who are affiliated with regional or small and mid-sized universities and research institutions in Japan, and whose independent research is hindered by exhausted research funds or growing teaching and other non-research duties.
Applicants must have averaged no more than 1,500,000 JPY per year in direct-cost competitive funding, including private foundation grants. There are no age or nationality restrictions.
The foundation plans to award 2,000,000 JPY per project to 7 projects. Funds cannot be used for the applicant’s salary, and overhead charges are not allowed. The funds can be used for a period of about 2.5 years, with a one-year extension possible in certain circumstances.
Applications close on February 28, 2027.