Call for Proposals: Research on Contemporary Japan
‘Young Japanologist: The Next Generation’
This call for proposals is part of the LeidenAsiaCentre-project ‘Young Japanologist: The Next Generation’. This project, that is partly funded by the Isaac Alfred Ailion Foundation (IAAF), offers young professionals, who want to pursue a career as scientific researchers of Modern Japan, the opportunity to gain work experience at the LeidenAsiaCentre. LeidenAsiaCentre provides a research position to a Junior Japan Researcher for a maximum period of 6 months (based on 1.0 fte).
The overarching theme of this project is ‘The Role of Urban Cooperation’. The project aims to increase understanding of societal developments in Japan for a Dutch audience. This research programme focuses on the growing geopolitical role of cities, with a specific emphasis on urban cooperation between Japan and the Netherlands.
For more info about the programme, please see below.
Leiden, Netherlands
Master’s degree in Asian Studies or other relevant field
40 hours per week
In line with the standard rates for university researchers
1 July 2025 – 31 December 2025
Apply before 1 May 2025
Selection Criteria
- Graduate Master’s degree in Asian Studies (or another closely relevant field) with excellent results;
- You are equipped to conduct research on topics related to contemporary Japan, with societal or policy relevance. Previous experience is considered an asset, but not a requirement. These topics can be related to, for instance, Japanese politics, Japanese economic and industrial policy, or foreign policy;
- Excellent command of written and spoken English and a working proficiency in Japanese are required;
- Demonstrable ability to conduct research independently.
Research Proposal
We ask applicants to submit a short (maximum two pages) research proposal with their application; your research proposal needs to at least contain the following elements:
- Research question;
- Conceptual and theoretical framework;
- Preliminary schedule;
- Deliverables (e.g. report, public event);
- A short paragraph explaining why you are equipped to conduct the proposed research project.
Tasks and responsibilities
- To conduct research in accordance with the proposal (subject to revision in consultation);
- Regular meetings and feedback sessions with research supervisors to discuss progress;
- A finished report (including peer reviews, etc.);
- To disseminate research findings by publishing reports and presenting at public events.
Terms and Conditions
Successful candidates will be offered a salary in line with the standard rates for university researchers, based on their previous experience. This is a full-time position, requiring 40 hours per week. A pension plan and other secondary benefits are included.
Successful candidates will receive a 6-month contract.
Throughout the project, the researcher will receive regular feedback and guidance from senior researchers. If, for any reason, the research paper is not completed within the 6-month period, the researcher is expected to continue working on the project until it is finished, including the final public presentation. However, LAC will not be able to compensate for any additional hours or costs incurred to complete the project.
Interested? Send your research proposal (max 2 pages), your CV (max 2. pages), and a writing sample (your master thesis, for example) to info@leidenasiacentre.nl, addressed to Floris Harm. Deadline is 1st of May 2025.
Background Research Project
This research programme focuses on the growing geopolitical role of cities, with a specific emphasis on urban collaboration between Japan and the Netherlands.
The goal is to involve young researchers in analysing the dynamic interactions and partnerships in the fields of urban development, sustainability, the circular economy, AI, and other relevant themes. Particular attention will be given to the role of urban authorities, the private sector, and the influence of policy measures on urban cooperation.
Background and Relevance: Japan is playing an increasingly important role for the Netherlands, especially in terms of city-to-city collaboration. This fits into a global trend: cities are becoming more important on the geopolitical stage. Tokyo, for instance, plays a prominent role in international cooperation on urban issues. In Japan, urban collaboration is crucial for addressing challenges such as risk management for floods and earthquakes, as well as implementing sustainability and circular economy initiatives.
In the medium to long term, the project will make a significant contribution to strengthening Japan-related knowledge in the Netherlands.
LeidenAsiaCentre
LeidenAsiaCentre is the international centre of expertise on modern East Asia in the Netherlands. The aim of the centre is to promote the acquisition, application and dissemination of knowledge on modern East Asia in all its aspects. LeidenAsiaCentre staff conducts research with a strong focus on valorisation: this means that research questions are formulated in consultation with our partners. Our partners include governments, business, civil society, media and other academic and non-academic knowledge centres.
