JAXA is looking for talented and motivated individuals who are willing to work at the frontline of Japanese space development, space science and aviation technology.

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• FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) (Updated on July 1, 2009)

The Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS) of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) offers scientists and engineers in aerospace an opportunity to conduct research into the scientific and technical aspects of space. Examples of possible research topics include:

• Structure and origin of the universe
• Formation of the earth and solar system
• Utilization of the space environment for microgravity experiments
• Engineering and technology development for the exploitation of space

The JAXA International Top Young Fellowship (ITYF) was established as a prestigious new fellowship program in 2009. The ITYF is designed to attract outstanding, highly motivated, young researchers in any of the space science fields covered by ISAS/JAXA to work in Japan for 3 (extendable to 5) years. The excellent remuneration package (see below) includes research budget and travel support so that the Fellow can extend their international profile, as well as developing collaborations within Japan.

1. Duration of the research period is basically three (3) years. The contract shall be renewed every fiscal year. The period can be extended up-to five (5) years through the review by the ITYF Committee if desired.
2. Commencement of the research activity is negotiable: sometime during Japanese FY2010 (April 2010 to March 2011)

1. Salary: The monthly salary is 790,000 Japanese Yen (equivalent to an annual salary of $100,000 US dollars at a typical exchange rate of 94.80JPY / dollar). Tax is included.
2. $25,000 US dollars of the research budget is prepared as travel and research funds.
3. Place of appointment: JAXA Sagamihara Campus (ISAS)
4. Lodging: House allowance in accordance with the JAXA’s provisions will be provided.
5. Social and other insurances will be fully provided.

Applicant must have a Ph.D. (or equivalent doctoral level degree) and postdoctoral experience for maximum of 8 years.

A set of the following documents is to be submitted via e-mail to international_fellowship@jaxa.jp (PDF format preferred)

1. Applicant’s curriculum vitae
2. Outline of applicant’s previous research , and future research plan
3. List of research achievements, including published papers and other publications, etc.
4. Applicant’s three(3) major research papers
5. Three(3) letters of reference

(The letters of reference must be sent by email directly from your referees' accounts at international_fellowship@jaxa.jp. Please inform us of names of your referees in your email message when you send the application documents.)

Application documents can be sent to the address below by registered mail or international courier service. If so, please state “Application documents for JAXA International Top Young Fellowship” in red ink on the front of the envelope. Application documents will not be returned.

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April 20, 2010
All applications must be received by the closing date.

Submitted documents will be reviewed by the JAXA International Top Young Fellowship Committee. Selected candidates are invited for a seminar presentation at ISAS/JAXA in Japan.

E-mail:international_fellowship@jaxa.jp
JAXA International Top Young Fellowship Committee
Institute of Space and Astronautical Science, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency

All documents should be in English language.

The personal information provided to JAXA will be used and handled only for the purpose of selecting the JAXA International Top Young Fellow. JAXA will discard all personal information of unsuccessful candidates after the selection.