Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies (KCJS) Postdoctoral Fellowship

The Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies invites applications for the KCJS Postdoctoral Fellowship for the academic year 2027-28, with the possibility of extension. Based at Doshisha University in Kyoto, KCJS is an undergraduate study abroad program governed by a consortium of twelve American universities and administered by the Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement at Columbia University. 

The KCJS Fellow is expected to engage in their own research and teach one course each semester in Kyoto. One course should be in the fellow’s own field of interest, while the second should be a broad introductory survey of Japanese civilization. Such a survey may be provided with a particular disciplinary emphasis, such as art, religion, literature or cultural studies. Both courses should be designed to appeal to a wide range of majors and take full advantage of KCJS’s location, preferably encompassing local excursions, hands-on demonstrations, and/or observations. Preference will be given to candidates with the capacity to deliver such courses and those who can demonstrate a commitment to delivering engaging, immersive learning experiences that are both rigorous and accessible. 

Additional responsibilities include: assisting the resident director with academic planning and semester orientations; mentoring students on academic matters, career planning, and life in Japan; assisting the resident director in reviewing independent study proposals and summer research proposals; supervising independent studies; presenting their research regularly; and attending KCJS-sponsored curricular and extra-curricular events. These responsibilities and other professional development opportunities provide the Fellow with strong teaching experience and a broad overview into undergraduate global education. The Fellow is also expected to engage in the academic life of Kyoto through involvement in research study groups at Doshisha and other local institutions.

Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in a Japan-related field by the start of the fellowship. It is preferred that the candidate has relevant undergraduate teaching experience, previous experience living or studying in Japan, and Japanese language and cultural fluency.

Terms

• The position is hired in Japan through the KCJS. 
• The term of appointment is from August 1, 2027 to May 31, 2028, with the possibility of an extension to May 31, 2029, pending mutual agreement and the approval of the relevant committees. 
• Annual salary of approximately ¥7,000,000 over 10 months
• Japan health insurance coverage for incumbent and approved family members
• Reimbursement for research costs up to ¥500,000
• Reimbursement for round-trip transportation from the home country to Japan for the Fellow and immediate family members, which may include a spouse/partner and one child under 18 years of age
• A shared office with another fellow equipped with a printer and, if necessary, a computer located on the Doshisha campus alongside the KCJS team;
• Access to Doshisha’s libraries, archives, and museums. 
• The successful candidate may be asked to teach a one semester course (90 minutes per week for 15 weeks) in English for Doshisha University students.

For more information about the KCJS program, please visit https://global.undergrad.columbia.edu/program/kcjs-semester

Application Process

Candidates must have the Ph.D. defended by July 1, 2027 and no earlier than July 1, 2022.      The review of applications will begin on December 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. 

Candidates should submit the following required materials:

1. Cover letter: Describing the candidate’s academic background, areas of teaching and research, and interest in the KCJS Postdoctoral Fellowship. The letter should address how the candidate’s teaching and research would contribute to and benefit from the distinctive academic environment of KCJS.  
2. Curriculum Vitae: Include the anticipated or actual date of dissertation defense or completion.
3. Statement of Research (2 pages): Describing the research the candidate plans to pursue during the fellowship term, including the project’s goals and proposed stages of work. Please discuss how residence at KCJS and in Kyoto would advance the project.  
4. List of Previous Courses Taught: Include course titles, institutions, dates taught, and brief descriptions.
5. Course Evaluations: Evaluations from most recent courses taught by the candidate. 
6. Two syllabi for proposed KCJS courses: Include concrete details about prospective readings and other course materials, assignments, and excursions or other experiential components. 
7. Three Letters of Reference: Addressing the candidate’s qualifications for the fellowship, including, as appropriate, their research, teaching, and potential contributions to the KCJS community.  

Inquiries may be directed to Patrick Noonan, Resident Director of KCJS: [email protected]

All applicants must apply through the administering institution’s online site:  start your application here.