University of Tokyo Faculty & Research Positions 2026: Apply for Academic and Research Jobs in Japan
If you are looking to build an academic or research career in Japan, the University of Tokyo (UTokyo) offers some of the most prestigious opportunities in Asia. As Japan's highest-ranked university, UTokyo attracts talented researchers, scientists, engineers, and educators from around the world.
The university is currently recruiting for multiple faculty and research positions across its institutes, graduate schools, and research centers. These opportunities cover a wide range of disciplines, including physics, engineering, neuroscience, quantum science, biosciences, astronomy, materials science, electrical engineering, and industrial science.
Many of these positions are open to international applicants, offering access to cutting-edge laboratories, collaborative research environments, and world-class facilities.
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Why Choose the University of Tokyo?
Founded in 1877, the University of Tokyo is Japan's oldest national university and one of the world's leading research institutions. It consistently ranks among the top universities globally and is known for producing Nobel Prize winners, pioneering scientific discoveries, and influential academic research.
Researchers at UTokyo benefit from:
World-class research facilities
International research collaborations
State-of-the-art laboratories
Access to competitive research funding
Opportunities to work with globally recognized scientists
Strong industry partnerships
A vibrant international academic community
Career development and professional training
Whether your expertise lies in engineering, life sciences, astronomy, materials science, or social sciences, UTokyo provides an excellent platform to advance your research career.
Why International Researchers Choose UTokyo
Each year, hundreds of international researchers join the University of Tokyo because of its:
High global university ranking
Strong publication output
Collaborative research culture
English-language research opportunities in many departments
Modern campus facilities
Access to advanced scientific equipment
Research funding support
Excellent quality of life in Tokyo
Current Faculty & Research Positions (2026)
| Position | Department | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor (Female Only) | KAGRA Observatory | 6 July 2026 |
| Research Associate | Division of Condensed Matter Theory | 31 July 2026 |
| Professor | Design-Led X Platform | 9 July 2026 |
| Director (Five-Year Term) | Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe | 24 July 2026 |
| Research Associate | Nanoscale Quantum Science Center | 28 August 2026 |
| Project Research Associate | Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory | 1 October 2026 |
| Project Assistant Professor | KAGRA Observatory | 27 July 2026 |
| Project Researcher | Department of Electrical Engineering | 31 August 2026 (or until filled) |
| Research Associate | Center for New Materials Research | 17 August 2026 |
| Project Researcher | International Research Center for Neurointelligence | 3 August 2026 (or until filled) |
1. Assistant Professor (Female Only) – KAGRA Observatory
Institute: Institute for Cosmic Ray Research
Position Type: Academic and Administrative Staff
Application Deadline: 6 July 2026
The KAGRA Observatory is inviting applications from qualified female researchers for an Assistant Professor position. This recruitment supports the university's commitment to promoting diversity in academia.
Research Areas
Gravitational Wave Astronomy
Astrophysics
Experimental Physics
Space Science
Instrumentation
Who Should Apply?
Candidates with a PhD and research experience in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
Official Vacancy
https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/focus/en/jobs/
2. Research Associate – Division of Condensed Matter Theory (Koshino Group)
Institute: Institute for Solid State Physics
Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
The Koshino Group is seeking a Research Associate to contribute to theoretical research in condensed matter physics.
Research Areas
Condensed Matter Physics
Quantum Materials
Computational Physics
Theoretical Physics
Applicants should have a strong academic background in physics and computational modeling.
Apply Here
https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/focus/en/jobs/
3. Professor – Design-Led X Platform
Institute: Institute of Industrial Science
Application Deadline: 9 July 2026
The Institute of Industrial Science seeks an experienced academic leader for a Professor position within the Design-Led X Platform.
Research Areas
Design Innovation
Industrial Engineering
Digital Transformation
Human-Centered Design
Technology Innovation
This role is ideal for established researchers with an international reputation in interdisciplinary design and innovation.
4. Director (Five-Year Term)
Institute: Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe (Kavli IPMU)
Application Deadline: 24 July 2026
The University of Tokyo is recruiting a Director for the globally renowned Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe.
Research Fields
Cosmology
Particle Physics
Astronomy
Mathematics
Astrophysics
This prestigious leadership position is suitable for internationally recognized scientists with significant research and administrative experience.
5. Research Associate – Nanoscale Quantum Science Center (Hashisaka Group)
Institute: Institute for Solid State Physics
Application Deadline: 28 August 2026
The Hashisaka Group is recruiting a Research Associate to work on cutting-edge nanoscale quantum science research.
Research Areas
Quantum Computing
Nanotechnology
Semiconductor Physics
Quantum Electronics
Applicants should have expertise in experimental or theoretical quantum science.
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6. Project Research Associate – Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory
Institute: Institute for Solid State Physics
Application Deadline: 1 October 2026
The Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory is inviting applications for a Project Research Associate position focused on advanced synchrotron research.
Research Topics
Synchrotron Radiation
Materials Science
Surface Science
X-ray Spectroscopy
Candidates with laboratory experience in materials characterization will be highly competitive.
7. Project Assistant Professor – KAGRA Observatory
Institute: Institute for Cosmic Ray Research
Application Deadline: 27 July 2026
This fixed-term Project Assistant Professor position supports ongoing research at the internationally recognized KAGRA Observatory.
Research Areas
Experimental Physics
Astronomy
Detector Development
Gravitational Wave Science
The successful candidate will collaborate with global research teams working on gravitational wave detection.
8. Project Researcher – Department of Electrical Engineering
Faculty: Graduate School of Engineering
Application Deadline: 31 August 2026 (or until filled)
The Department of Electrical Engineering is recruiting a Project Researcher for advanced engineering research projects.
Research Areas
Electrical Engineering
Artificial Intelligence
Robotics
Power Systems
Smart Technologies
Applicants with experience in engineering research and innovation are encouraged to apply.
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9. Research Associate – Center for New Materials Research (Hirose Group)
Institute: Institute for Solid State Physics
Application Deadline: 17 August 2026
The Hirose Group is looking for a motivated Research Associate to contribute to advanced materials research.
Research Areas
Materials Science
Nanomaterials
Solid-State Physics
Functional Materials
This position is suitable for researchers with expertise in materials characterization and experimental physics.
10. Project Researcher – International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN)
Institute: International Research Center for Neurointelligence
Application Deadline: 3 August 2026 (or until filled)
This international project offers an exciting opportunity to work at one of five partner laboratories located in the United States, Italy, France, Singapore, or at the University of Tokyo.
Research Areas
Neuroscience
Brain Science
Artificial Intelligence
Neurobiology
Cognitive Science
Researchers will collaborate with leading international laboratories on innovative neuroscience projects.
Official Application Links
All current faculty and research vacancies are listed on the official University of Tokyo recruitment portal.
University of Tokyo Faculty & Research Positions
University of Tokyo Careers Portal
https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/focus/en/jobs/
Tips Before You Apply
Review the detailed job description carefully.
Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
Prepare an updated academic CV and publication list.
Contact the hiring department if additional information is required.
Submit your application before the stated deadline, as late applications are generally not accepted.
11. Professor – Quark Nuclear Science Institute
Department: Graduate School of Science / Faculty of Science
Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
The University of Tokyo is seeking an internationally recognized researcher for a Professor position at the Quark Nuclear Science Institute.
Research Areas
Nuclear Physics
Particle Physics
Experimental Physics
High-Energy Physics
Accelerator Science
Who Should Apply?
Applicants should have:
A PhD in Physics or a closely related discipline.
An outstanding international research record.
Leadership experience in academic research.
Experience supervising graduate students and managing research teams.
12. Assistant Professor – Quark Nuclear Science Institute
Department: Graduate School of Science / Faculty of Science
Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
The institute is also recruiting an Assistant Professor to contribute to research and teaching in nuclear and particle science.
Research Fields
Nuclear Physics
Particle Physics
Experimental Science
Computational Physics
This position is ideal for early-career researchers with a strong publication record.
13. Associate Professor – Quark Nuclear Science Institute
Department: Graduate School of Science / Faculty of Science
Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
The Associate Professor will play an important role in leading research projects while mentoring graduate students.
Research Areas
Nuclear Science
Quantum Physics
High-Energy Physics
Computational Modeling
Applicants should demonstrate excellence in research and collaboration.
14. Professor – Space and Planetary Science Group
Department: Department of Earth and Planetary Science
Application Deadline: 24 August 2026
This prestigious position is open to researchers with internationally recognized expertise in planetary science.
Research Topics
Planetary Science
Space Exploration
Geophysics
Astronomy
Earth Sciences
The successful candidate will contribute to teaching and lead internationally competitive research projects.
15. Project Researcher – Di Carlo Lab
Department: Graduate School of Science / Faculty of Science
Application Deadline: 15 July 2026
The Di Carlo Lab is inviting applications for a Project Researcher position focusing on innovative scientific research.
Research Areas
Molecular Biology
Cell Biology
Biomedical Science
Experimental Research
Candidates should have practical laboratory experience and strong research potential.
16. Project Researcher – Earthquake Research Institute
Institute: Earthquake Research Institute
Application Deadline: 4 September 2026
The Earthquake Research Institute is recruiting Project Researchers to support disaster risk reduction and earthquake science.
Research Fields
Seismology
Earth Sciences
Geophysics
Natural Disaster Research
Earthquake Engineering
This opportunity is suitable for researchers interested in advancing earthquake prediction and mitigation technologies.
17. Associate Professor – KOMEX
Department: Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Application Deadline: 24 July 2026
The Komaba Organization for Educational Excellence (KOMEX) is seeking an Associate Professor dedicated to educational innovation and interdisciplinary teaching.
Research Areas
Higher Education
Educational Innovation
Liberal Arts
Curriculum Development
Applicants should have significant teaching and research experience.
18. Project Researcher – Electrical Engineering
Department: Graduate School of Engineering
Application Deadline: 30 November 2026 (or Until Filled)
The Graduate School of Engineering is recruiting Project Researchers to work on advanced engineering projects.
Research Topics
Artificial Intelligence
Robotics
Electrical Systems
Electronics
Smart Technologies
Renewable Energy
Applications are accepted until the deadline or until the position is filled.
19. Associate Professor – Photon Science Center
Department: Graduate School of Engineering
Application Deadline: 4 September 2026
The Photon Science Center is inviting applications for an Associate Professor position.
Research Areas
Photonics
Optical Engineering
Laser Science
Quantum Optics
Optical Materials
The successful applicant will lead innovative research programs and supervise graduate students.
20. Professor – Institute for Quantitative Biosciences
Institute: Institute for Quantitative Biosciences
Application Deadline: 30 September 2026 (or Until Filled)
This senior academic position is aimed at internationally recognized researchers working at the intersection of biology and quantitative science.
Research Areas
Bioinformatics
Systems Biology
Computational Biology
Molecular Biology
Quantitative Biosciences
Applicants should have a distinguished publication record and proven leadership in interdisciplinary research.
| Position | Department | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Professor | Quark Nuclear Science Institute | 31 July 2026 |
| Assistant Professor | Quark Nuclear Science Institute | 31 July 2026 |
| Associate Professor | Quark Nuclear Science Institute | 31 July 2026 |
| Professor | Space & Planetary Science Group | 24 August 2026 |
| Project Researcher | Di Carlo Lab | 15 July 2026 |
| Project Researcher | Earthquake Research Institute | 4 September 2026 |
| Associate Professor | KOMEX | 24 July 2026 |
| Project Researcher | Electrical Engineering | 30 November 2026 (or Until Filled) |
| Associate Professor | Photon Science Center | 4 September 2026 |
| Professor | Institute for Quantitative Biosciences | 30 September 2026 (or Until Filled) |
Who Can Apply?
Most University of Tokyo faculty and research positions are open to both Japanese and international applicants.
Typical requirements include:
A PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant field.
Strong research achievements and publication record.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Excellent communication skills.
Teaching or mentoring experience (for faculty roles).
Project-specific technical expertise.
Some positions may also require Japanese language proficiency, while many research positions welcome English-speaking applicants.
Required Application Documents
Most vacancies require the following documents:
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Cover Letter
Research Statement
Teaching Statement (for faculty positions)
Publication List
Copies of Degree Certificates
Academic Transcripts (if requested)
Contact details of two or three referees
Copies of key research publications
Always review the individual vacancy announcement for any additional requirements.
Salary and Benefits
The University of Tokyo offers competitive employment packages, which vary depending on the position and funding source.
Benefits may include:
Competitive salary based on university regulations.
Social insurance and pension coverage.
Annual paid leave.
Access to advanced laboratories and research facilities.
Professional development opportunities.
International collaboration and networking.
Support for conference participation and research activities.
Salary details are provided in the official vacancy notices where applicable.
How to Apply
Step 1
Visit the official University of Tokyo careers portal.
Step 2
Select the vacancy that matches your qualifications and research interests.
Step 3
Download and carefully read the detailed job description.
Step 4
Prepare all required application documents.
Step 5
Submit your application according to the instructions in the vacancy notice before the deadline.
Official Application Links
University of Tokyo Faculty & Research Positions
University of Tokyo Jobs Portal
https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/focus/en/jobs/
University of Tokyo Homepage
Tips for a Successful Application
Apply Early
Many positions receive applications from researchers around the world. Submitting your application early gives you more time to address any issues before the deadline.
Tailor Your Application
Customize your cover letter and research statement for each position. Explain how your expertise aligns with the department's research goals.
Showcase Your Research
Highlight:
High-impact publications.
Research grants and awards.
International collaborations.
Technical and laboratory skills.
Conference presentations.
Contact the Hiring Department
If the vacancy encourages inquiries, reaching out to the listed contact person can help clarify expectations and demonstrate your interest.
Why Work at the University of Tokyo?
The University of Tokyo offers an exceptional environment for researchers seeking to make a global impact. With world-leading facilities, renowned faculty, and extensive international collaborations, UTokyo provides opportunities to work on groundbreaking research in fields ranging from quantum physics and engineering to neuroscience and biosciences.
Researchers also benefit from living in Tokyo, one of the world's leading centers for science, technology, and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are international applicants eligible?
Yes. Many faculty and research positions at the University of Tokyo welcome applications from qualified international researchers. Eligibility and language requirements vary by position.
Are these permanent positions?
Some vacancies are permanent faculty appointments, while others are fixed-term project positions. The employment type is specified in each official announcement.
Do I need to know Japanese?
Not always. Many research groups operate in English, particularly those with international collaborations. However, some teaching or administrative responsibilities may require Japanese language proficiency.
Where can I find future job openings?
The official University of Tokyo careers portal is updated regularly with new faculty and research opportunities. Prospective applicants should check it frequently for the latest announcements.
Final Thoughts
The University of Tokyo remains one of the most prestigious destinations for researchers and academics worldwide. The current recruitment cycle offers a wide range of opportunities across physics, engineering, neuroscience, biosciences, earth sciences, and education, making it an excellent time to explore a career at Japan's leading university.
Whether you are an early-career researcher seeking a Research Associate role or an experienced academic pursuing a senior faculty position, these vacancies provide access to outstanding research facilities, international collaborations, and a vibrant academic community.
Since application deadlines range from July to November 2026, applicants should begin preparing their documents early, carefully review the official vacancy announcements, and submit their applications before the stated deadlines to maximize their chances of success.
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