kaken

Kaken, commonly written as KAKENHI, refers to the Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research in Japan, the main government funding program for basic and applied research. The term is widely used in academic circles to denote government-supported research grants awarded to researchers at universities and national or public research institutes. The program is administered by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).

Purpose and scope: KAKENHI aims to promote high-quality research across disciplines, from fundamental science to applied studies, and to strengthen Japan’s international competitiveness in science and technology. It supports a range of activities, including personnel costs, equipment, fieldwork, and other research-related expenses. Grants can be awarded for one-year periods or extended multi-year terms.

Application and review: Researchers submit proposals through their affiliated institutions. Proposals undergo peer review by expert panels that assess scientific merit, feasibility, and potential impact. Funding decisions typically follow annual or multi-year cycles, with outcomes announced by JSPS.

Funding streams and categories: The program encompasses several streams and categories that differ in scale and purpose. Commonly, categories labeled A, B, and C are used to distinguish grant sizes and scope, alongside special or targeted programs for large-scale projects, interdisciplinary work, or early-career researchers. Exact rules, eligibility, and grant amounts are defined in JSPS guidelines and can change over time.

Impact and usage: KAKENHI is a central pillar of Japan’s research funding landscape, supporting a large share of university research and national institutes. Its competitive grant process aims to promote scientific excellence while aligning funding with national priorities and strategic goals.