Deadline: 29-Aug-2025
The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) have launched a joint call for proposals on “Smart Agriculture.” This initiative aims to promote international collaboration and exchange between researchers from Japan and the Philippines. Under this program, JST and DOST will jointly fund research projects developed and implemented by teams from both countries.
The call supports up to five research projects focusing on smart agriculture. The goal is to advance scientific knowledge through bilateral research, facilitate the exchange of expertise and technology, and create opportunities for young researchers from both countries to connect and build a strong science and technology community in the region.
Research topics include advanced monitoring and optimization systems for cost-effective agriculture, next-generation smart agriculture technologies for automation, smart agriculture adapted to regional diversity, smart breeding for neglected species, and resilient agricultural models for sustainability and climate change adaptation.
DOST will provide funding of up to PHP 15 million per project over 36 months. This includes international travel between the Philippines and Japan, domestic travel, medical insurance, daily allowances, accommodation, and travel expenses for the Filipino research team while in Japan.
Eligible costs cover equipment, consumables, travel related to the research, personnel costs, expenses for organizing events to disseminate results, outsourcing, equipment leasing, transportation, and personnel expenses for administrative support related to the project.
Applicants must submit two identical copies of their proposals—one to JST and one to DOST. Proposals not submitted to both agencies will be disqualified. It is recommended to start the application process at least a week before the deadline as online submissions require entering details in both systems.
Eligible researchers for JST funding are those affiliated with Japanese domestic research institutions where they will conduct their research. The project must maintain its eligibility status throughout its duration, or funding may be suspended.
For DOST funding, the proposal must align with the Harmonized National R&D Agenda and avoid duplication with ongoing or completed projects. The implementing agency must be a Filipino entity registered with the government, either a government agency or educational institution.
The Filipino program/project leader must be a Filipino citizen with proven capability and institutional endorsement. They must hold a permanent or regular position, not have any pending accountability with DOST, and have a clean administrative and legal record.
The Japanese team typically consists of a Principal Investigator (PI) responsible for overseeing the project and affiliated with a Japanese research institution. A Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) may also be designated if needed. Other research participants may include technicians, assistants, students, and coordinators who support the project but are not directly funded by JST.
For more information, visit JST.
