FY2026 Strategic Basic Research Programs Call for Proposals

JST's Strategic Basic Research Programs support ambitious basic research through CREST, PRESTO, and ACT-X. The FY2026 call includes research areas such as the PRESTO Exposome area on molecular mechanisms of complex environmental exposures shaping present and future life.

Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) lists this opportunity for Researchers and research teams, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics, Japan / International collaboration. Applicants should use the official call page to confirm final requirements before submitting.

Applicants should review the JST application guidelines, research-area requirements, and e-Rad submission rules.

International researchers should confirm whether a Japanese associate or eligible Japanese institution must handle the e-Rad submission process.

Strategic basic research across CREST, PRESTO, and ACT-X research areas announced for FY2026.

CREST and PRESTO proposals support research start planned for 1 October 2026 after document review and selection.

Funding levels and conditions vary by programme and research area. Applicants should use JST's FY2026 application guideline and area pages for the applicable budget rules.

CREST and PRESTO Exposome deadline: CREST and PRESTO Exposome deadline: Jun 2, 2026.

Confirm the exact deadline time, time zone, and submission route on the official call page.

Plan internal approvals, partner confirmations, budgets, letters, and portal submission before the final deadline.

Use the official JST call page and submit through e-Rad by the relevant programme deadline. PRESTO/ACT-X closed on 26 May 2026, while CREST and PRESTO Exposome proposals are due on 2 June 2026 at 12:00 noon Japan time.

Before submitting, check required documents, eligible costs, attachments, page limits, institutional approvals, and whether the opportunity uses an expression of interest, full proposal, registration, or nomination stage.