The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation and the Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership have initiated a new program aimed at fostering a network of “New Generation” Japan specialists. This unique effort is intended to build and enhance a network of “New Generation” Japan specialists that can bring diverse expertise and perspectives to the bilateral policy-making process in the mid- and long-term. This will lead to deeper and more vigorous dialogue and research on topics of immediate concern as well as on ways to strengthen the U.S.-Japan relationship through cooperation and shared goals in the global arena.
Applications are now being accepted for the two-year program. Selected participants from January 2012 to January 2014 will participate in a series of meetings and workshops and a study trip to Japan. Participants also will prepare op-ed pieces and commentary/blog posts and brief policy papers that will be presented at a January 2014 public symposium in Washington, D.C.
Purpose of the Program
The purpose of the “U.S.-Japan Network for the Future” program is to identify American professionals who demonstrate an interest in and potential for becoming Japan specialists and policy intellectuals and to support them in this effort. The network will include Japan specialists from all regions of the U.S. with diverse expertise and perspectives and the ability to participate constructively in the bilateral policymaking process and to contribute to U.S.-Japan understanding.
Eligibility and Other Conditions
Applicants must be American citizens or permanent residents who are currently and actively involved in the Japan-U.S. dialogue and have a working knowledge of the Japanese language. The program is targeted at scholars with a professional interest in Japan, and professionals who have a strong engagement with Japan and who have work experience in policy-relevant fields. In addition to having an interest in public policy, successful applicants will be able to demonstrate their interest in and potential for becoming future leaders in the U.S.-Japan relationship. Preference is for candidates in the mid-career stage. In the academic context, normally this translates into scholars at the advanced assistant or early associate professor levels. Policy professionals should have a Master’s degree and at least five years of Japan experience.
Participants must be fully dedicated to the two-year program and able to participate in all scheduled meetings. Network participants will be expected to fully participate in: a two-day workshop in Washington, D.C. (January 2012); a week-long meeting in Washington, D.C. (June 2012); a two-day retreat in Montana (autumn 2012); a week-long Japan study trip (June 2013); and a January 2014 public symposium and current issues panel discussions.
Financial support for those selected is limited to coverage of travel, accommodations, and meal expenses associated with participation in program meetings and study trips.
Last date for submission of application is October 3, 2011.
For more information and details, you can visit this link.
